Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of these microorganisms is known for its role in fixing nitrogen from the air?
Which of these microorganisms is known for its role in fixing nitrogen from the air?
Which microorganism is NOT typically involved in the decomposition of dead organic matter?
Which microorganism is NOT typically involved in the decomposition of dead organic matter?
Which type of microorganism is used in the production of fermented foods?
Which type of microorganism is used in the production of fermented foods?
Which microorganism plays a role in environmental pollutant degradation?
Which microorganism plays a role in environmental pollutant degradation?
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Which of the following microorganisms would you most likely find helping plants absorb nutrients and water?
Which of the following microorganisms would you most likely find helping plants absorb nutrients and water?
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Which of these microorganisms produces toxins that control harmful insects?
Which of these microorganisms produces toxins that control harmful insects?
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Which microorganisms play a crucial role in increasing soil fertility?
Which microorganisms play a crucial role in increasing soil fertility?
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Which microorganism is NOT typically involved in the recycling of nutrients?
Which microorganism is NOT typically involved in the recycling of nutrients?
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Microorganisms are essential to the environment for many reasons. Which of these is NOT one of those reasons?
Microorganisms are essential to the environment for many reasons. Which of these is NOT one of those reasons?
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Which microorganisms are instrumental in the biological control of plant diseases?
Which microorganisms are instrumental in the biological control of plant diseases?
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Study Notes
Microorganisms
- Microorganisms are tiny living organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
- They can be found almost everywhere, including in air, soil, and water.
- Microorganisms are classified into several groups, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and some algae.
- They play a significant role in many ecosystems and are essential for life on Earth.
Harmful Microorganisms
- Some microorganisms can cause diseases in humans, such as typhoid, malaria, and pneumonia.
- These diseases can be spread through air, water, food, or contact with infected persons.
- Harmful microorganisms can be carried by insects and animals, and can contaminate food and water.
Antibiotics
- Antibiotics are medicines that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
- They are specific in their action and only target specific bacteria.
- Antibiotics are prescribed by doctors and should be taken in full to prevent bacteria from developing resistance.
- Examples of antibiotics include streptomycin, tetracycline, and penicillin.
Microorganisms and Man
- Microorganisms play an important role in many aspects of human life, including decomposition, food processing, disease, and agriculture.
- They are used in the production of antibiotics, vaccines, and other products.
- Microorganisms can also be used to clean up waste materials and increase soil fertility.
Yeast and Bread Making
- Yeast is a type of microorganism that is used in bread making.
- When yeast ferments, it produces carbon dioxide gas, which causes dough to rise.
- Yeast is essential for the production of bread, cakes, and other baked goods.
Nitrogen Fixation and Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis
- Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen gas into ammonia.
- Legume plants provide food and shelter for these bacteria in their root nodules.
- In return, the bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use.
Nitrogen Cycle
- The nitrogen cycle is the continuous movement of nitrogen between different reservoirs in the biosphere.
- It involves nitrogen fixation, nitrification, assimilation, ammonification, and denitrification.
- The nitrogen cycle is essential for life on Earth and is affected by human activities.
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Description
Learn about micro-organisms, tiny living things that can't be seen with the naked eye. Discover how they can form a bloom or scum on water. Explore Activity 1.1 to observe micro-organisms under a microscope.