Temperature

Question 1

Thermophiles

Answer 1

Thermophiles are organisms that thrive in high temperature environments and have specialised adaptions such as heat stable enzymes and proteins which are not denatured as temperature rises.

Question 2

Mesophiles

Answer 2

Mesophiles are organisms that thrive in moderate temperature ranges, e.g. room and body temperature. When exposed to temperatures outside of their optimal range, they will denature (exposure to heat) or crystallise and malfunction (freezing).

Question 3

Psychrophiles

Answer 3

Psychrophiles are organisms that thrive in extremely cold environments and have specialised adaptions, such as accumulating a high concentration of solutes in their cytoplasm to prevent freezing and proteins that allow them to work efficiently at low temperatures.