Life Processes and Effects of Microorganisms

Definition of microorganism

Very small living things that cannot be seen with our naked eyes

Equipment for looking at microorganisms

Microscopes

Types of microorganisms

Fungi, bacteria, algae, protozoa and virus

Examples of fungi

Mould, yeast, and Penicillium

Examples of bacteria

Spirillum, Streptococcus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella

Examples of algae

Chlorella, Chlamydomonas and Volvox

Factors affecting the growth of microorganisms

Suitable temperature, presence of water, presence of air, presence of nutrients, suitable acidity

Uses of Microorganisms

Manufacture of food products and production of medicine

Harmful effects of microorganisms

Cause food spoilage and cause tooth decay

Life processes of microorganisms

Breathe, move, grow