chromosomes in a bacterial cell can be 1-3 in number and :

Options

A. can be circular as well as linear within the same cell
B. are always circular
C. are always linear
D. can be either circular or linear, but never both within the same cell

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the number and shape of chromosomes in bacterial cells, we will analyze the statements provided in the options and relate them to known facts about bacterial chromosomes.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Bacterial Chromosomes**:
- Bacteria typically have a single chromosome that is circular and double-stranded DNA. However, some bacteria can have more than one chromosome.

2. **Number of Chromosomes**:
- Bacterial cells can have 1 to 3 chromosomes. For example, some species like *Agrobacterium* can have two chromosomes, one of which is circular and the other linear.

3. **Shape of Chromosomes**:
- The common shape of bacterial chromosomes is circular. However, there are exceptions, such as *Agrobacterium*, which has both circular and linear chromosomes.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1**: "Can be circular as well as linear within the same cell" - This is true, as seen in *Agrobacterium*.
- **Option 2**: "Are always circular" - This is false because some bacteria have linear chromosomes.
- **Option 3**: "Are always linear" - This is false, as most bacteria have circular chromosomes.
- **Option 4**: "Can be either circular or linear but never both within the same" - This is false, as *Agrobacterium* demonstrates that both can exist in the same cell.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option 1**, as bacterial chromosomes can indeed be circular as well as linear within the same cell.

### Final Answer:
The correct option is **Option 1**: Chromosomes in bacterial cells can be circular as well as linear within the same cell.