Module 1&2 - Microbiology

Question 1

Define environmental biotechnology.

Answer 1

The branch of technology that addresses environmental issues (removal of pollution, renewable energy generation, waste management) by exploiting biological processes.

Question 2

Define biotreatment.

Answer 2

Natural processes engineered to accelerate natural decay processes.

Question 3

Define biomass + provide examples.

Answer 3

Biomass: total of all living organisms -

a. Bacteria
b. Protozoa
c. Fungi
d. Rotifers
e. Algae

Question 4

What criteria defines a PROKARYOTIC organism?

Answer 4

1. Do not have nuclear membrane
2. Cells are very small (1-2 microns in diameter, 10 microns long)
3. 3 major shapes: rod, spherical, spiral
4. Cells divide by binary fission
5. Most biochemical reactions are performed by PROKARYOTIC organisms

Question 5

What criteria defines a EUKARYOTIC organisms (and differentiates from a prokaryotic cell)?

Answer 5

1. Do have a nuclear membrane
2. Cells vary in size (microscopic, macroscopic)

Question 6

What are nuisance bacteria?

Answer 6

Filamentous bacteria with long strands that grow in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions;