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Questions and Answers
What defines microorganisms according to the text?
Why was microbiology the last of the three major divisions in biology to develop?
Which of the following is NOT considered a major group of microorganisms according to the text?
Where are microorganisms NOT found according to the text?
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What size range characterizes most microorganisms?
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What is a major beneficial role of microorganisms in human life?
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Which of the following is NOT a way in which microorganisms impact human life?
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What is the significance of the 'black death' plague mentioned in the text?
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What is the area referred to as 'bioremediation' primarily focused on?
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How do microorganisms contribute to the flow of energy in ecosystems?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Microbiology
- Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, which are living organisms too small to be seen clearly with the naked eye.
- Microorganisms have a diameter of 1 mm or less and can only be seen with the aid of a microscope.
- Microbiology is one of the most applied of all the biological sciences and did not exist as a true science before the late 19th century.
Subdivisions of Microbiology
- Virology: the study of viruses
- Bacteriology: the study of bacteria
- Mycology: the study of fungi
- Phycology: the study of algae
- Protozoology: the study of protozoa
Occurrence of Microorganisms
- Microorganisms are present everywhere on earth, including humans, animals, plants, soil, water, and atmosphere.
- Microorganisms can multiply in all three habitats except in the atmosphere.
Economic Impacts of Microorganisms
- Microorganisms have both beneficial and detrimental influences on human life.
- Microorganisms are required for the production of various products, such as bread, cheese, yogurt, antibiotics, vaccines, and vitamins.
- Microorganisms play an important role in recycling organic and inorganic materials and maintaining the stability of the biosphere.
- Microorganisms are the source of nutrients at the base of all food chains and webs.
Negative Impacts of Microorganisms
- Microorganisms have harmed humans and disrupted societies over the millennia.
- Microbial diseases have played a major role in historical events, such as the decline of the Roman Empire and the conquest of the New World.
- The plague, also known as the "black death," struck Europe in 1347 and killed 25 million people, changing European culture and preparing the way for the Renaissance.
Microbes in Energy & Nutrient Flow
- Microorganisms are involved in the flow of energy and food through the earth's ecosystems.
- Photosynthesis is the light-fueled conversion of carbon dioxide to organic material.
- Decomposition is the breakdown of dead matter and wastes into simple compounds.
Human Use of Microorganisms
- Biotechnology: the production of foods, drugs, and vaccines using living organisms.
- Genetic engineering: manipulating the genes of organisms to make new products.
- Bioremediation: using living organisms to remedy an environmental problem.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the main themes of microbiology, including the study of microorganisms and the history of microbiology as a science. Explore the significance of microorganisms and their impact on various aspects of life.
