Micro
organisms
organisms
What is a microorganism?
A microorganism is a tiny living organism that can only be seen under a microscope,
Give two examples of microorganisms
bacteria. virus, fungi
What is the purpose of a vaccine?
protecting the body from future infections.
What does the term "pathogen" mean?
A pathogen is a microorganism that causes disease,
Name a common food preservation method that prevents the growth of microorganisms.
refrigeration,
Give an example of a virus that can cause disease.
flu virus (influenza),
Give an example of a bacteria that can cause disease
Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.
How does refrigeration help slow the growth of bacteria in food?
food at a low temperature, which slows down the reproduction and activity of bacteria, helping to preserve the food for a longer time.
Give an example of fungi that cause disease
Candida, which can lead to infections such as oral thrush and yeast infections. Another example is Tinea, which causes athlete's foot and ringworm.
give an example of good fungi
baker's yeast, which is used in baking and brewing to ferment dough and beverages. Another example is Penicillium, a fungus used to produce the antibiotic penicillin and in the production of cheeses like blue cheese.
What is food spoilage?
Food spoilage occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, molds, or yeasts break down food, causing it to decay and become unsafe to eat.
How can harmful bacteria be prevented from growing in food?
Harmful bacteria can be prevented by methods like refrigeration, cooking at high temperatures, drying, or using preservatives to inhibit their growth.
how vaccination can prevent disease.
Vaccination exposes the body to a harmless part of a pathogen or a weakened form, triggering the immune system to produce antibodies. This helps the body recognize and fight the pathogen if exposed in the future.
what type of infection do antibiotics cure?
bacterial infections
How does freezing food help preserve it?
Freezing food slows down the growth and activity of microorganisms by creating a cold environment where they cannot reproduce or function effectively, preserving the food for longer periods.
How do mutualistic microorganisms benefit human health?
Mutualistic microorganisms, such as the bacteria in the human gut, help with digestion, produce vitamins, and support the immune system.
What is the main difference between antibiotics and vaccines?
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections after they occur, while vaccines are used to prevent infections by training the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens before infection happens.
Why is proper hygiene important in preventing the spread of pathogens?
Proper hygiene, like washing hands and cleaning surfaces, helps remove and kill pathogens that can spread through contact, reducing the chance of infection.
Discuss the role of vaccination in preventing epidemics and why it is essential for public health.
Vaccination helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases by creating immunity in individuals, reducing the number of people who can spread the disease. This protects not only vaccinated individuals but also those who cannot be vaccinated, contributing to herd immunity and preventing epidemics.
What is the role of microorganisms in the human gut?
Microorganisms in the human gut, particularly bacteria, help digest food, produce essential vitamins, and support the immune system by preventing harmful microbes from establishing.