Which of the following best describes how the API test system functions?

The API test system is designed to identify bacteria by evaluating their biochemical reactions. This system uses a series of small, compartmentalized test strips that contain different substrates. When a bacterial isolate is inoculated into these compartments, each substrate reacts differently depending on the metabolic capabilities of the bacteria. Specific enzymatic activities, metabolic pathways, and nutrient utilization lead to color changes or other observable results that indicate which biochemical reactions have occurred. By comparing these results with a database of known profiles, one can accurately identify the bacterial species present in the sample. Thus, the API system is particularly effective in microbiology for rapid and precise identification based on these biochemical characteristics.