Explain the different components of bacterial flagellum.
GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer
The bacterial flagellum consists of three parts:
|
Component |
Structure |
Function |
|
Filament |
Longest portion; helical protein (flagellin); extends outside cell |
Provides propulsion through rotational movement |
|
Hook |
Short, curved, flexible protein structure just outside cell wall |
Connects filament to basal body; acts as universal joint |
|
Basal body |
Rod-like structure embedded in cell envelope; contains multiple protein rings |
Motor for rotation; anchors flagellum to cell membrane and wall |
Movement mechanism: Powered by proton motive force (in most bacteria) or sodium ion gradient (in marine bacteria); rotates like a propeller at ~200–1000 rpm.
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