Micro-organisms Flashcards
What is the process of decomposition?
When agents break up dead organisms into simpler substances by digesting the organic matter and releasing nutrients
What are the main agents of decomposition?
Bacteria and Fungi
What is a pathogen?
An organism that can prduce disease
How does refridgerating food defend against microbes?
Microbes live in temperatures between 4 and 60 degrees, bacteria can’t multiply outside this temperature
How does canning food defend against microbes?
The can is heated to a high temperature and microbes are killed, then it is sealed vacuum shut so they can’t enter the contents
How does dehydrating food defend against microbes?
The water is removed from the food, and it is no longer suitable for a microbe to survive
What are the three elements of survivle for a microbe?
Water, warmth and food
What is a micro-organism?
A living thing that is too small to be seen with the naked eye
How do bacteria live?
In colonies, which can grow on agar