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Microbes in Human Welfare
Microbes are tiny living organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. They are found everywhere on Earth, from the highest mountains to the deepest oceans.
Microbes play a vital role in human welfare. They are used to produce food, clean water, and fuel. They are also used to produce medicines and vaccines.
Some microbes are used to produce food. For example, bacteria are used to produce yogurt, cheese, and sausage. Bacteria are also used to produce bioethanol, a fuel made from corn.
Some microbes are used to clean water. For example, certain bacteria consume organic matter and produce carbon dioxide and water. This process is called bioremediation. It can be used to clean up oil spills, chemical spills, and wastewater.
Some microbes are used to produce medicines and vaccines. For example, bacteria are used to produce insulin, which is used to treat diabetes. Bacteria are also used to produce vaccines for diseases such as tuberculosis, typhoid, and cholera.
How can Microbes be used to improve Human Welfare?
There are many ways in which microbes can be used to improve human welfare. For example, microbes can be used to produce food, to clean up pollution, and to treat diseases.
Microbes can be used to produce food. For example, bacteria can be used to produce yogurt, cheese, and beer. Microbes can also be used to produce biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel.
Microbes can be used to clean up pollution. For example, bacteria can be used to break down oil spills. Microbes can also be used to clean up toxic waste.
Microbes can be used to treat diseases. For example, bacteria can be used to treat sewage. Bacteria can also be used to produce antibiotics.
Fermented Beverages
Fermented beverages are alcoholic drinks that are made by fermenting sugar and starches from fruits, vegetables, grains, or other sources. Yeast is added to the sugar and starch mixture, and the yeast ferments the sugar into alcohol. The alcohol content of fermented beverages varies, but most are between 3% and 12% alcohol by volume.
What are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are drugs that are used to treat bacterial infections. They work by killing the bacteria or preventing them from multiplying.
There are many different types of antibiotics, and they are classified according to their mechanism of action. Some common types of antibiotics include penicillins, cephalosporins, erythromycins, and tetracyclines.
Antibiotics are usually prescribed by a doctor, and they should only be taken as directed. It is important to take all of the antibiotics prescribed, even if you start to feel better. Stopping treatment early can allow the bacteria to become resistant to the antibiotic and make the infection harder to treat.
NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology Chapter 10 – Microbes in Human Welfare
Chemicals, Enzymes and Other Bioactive Molecules
Bioactive molecules are chemicals that have a biological effect on cells or organisms. Enzymes are a type of bioactive molecule that catalyze chemical reactions in the body. Other bioactive molecules include hormones, neurotransmitters, and vitamins.
Microbes in Sewage Treatment
In sewage treatment, activated sludge is mixed with wastewater to provide a food source for bacteria that break down the organic matter in the wastewater. The bacteria use up the oxygen in the wastewater, and the activated sludge helps to provide oxygen to the bacteria.
Microbes in Primary treatment
In the primary treatment of a burn, the goal is to stop the burning process, remove any dead tissue, and prevent infection. Treatment will also include relieving pain and providing fluids and nutrition.
To stop the burning process, the area is cooled with water, ice, or a special cooling agent. This is called cooling or irrigation.
Next, the dead tissue is removed. This is called debridement. Debridement may be done with a scalpel, scissors, or other instruments. It may also be done with a chemical agent, such as an enzyme or saline solution.
Finally, the area is cleaned and treated with a topical antibiotic ointment.
Microbes in Secondary Treatment
This step is for water that is not considered clean enough to drink. The water is sent through a series of filters that remove more particles and chemicals. This makes the water cleaner, but it is not yet safe to drink.
In Biogas Production from Dairy Manure
Biogas production from dairy manure is a potential application of anaerobic digestion. Anaerobic digestion is a process where organic matter is converted into methane and carbon dioxide. This process can be used to break down dairy manure and produce biogas. Biogas can be used to generate electricity or heat, or can be upgraded to natural gas quality.
Microbes As Biocontrol Agents
As biocontrol agents, nematodes are effective in controlling a number of soil-borne pests, including plant-parasitic nematodes, weed seeds, and insect larvae. In some cases, nematodes are more effective at controlling pests than chemical pesticides.
Also read: Microbes In Human Welfare Questions for CBSE Class 12th
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Microbes in Human Welfare
What is the role of microbes in human welfare?
Microbes play vital roles in various aspects of human welfare, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental management.
How do microbes contribute to medicine?
Microbes are used to produce antibiotics, vaccines, and insulin, revolutionizing medical treatments.
Can microbes improve agricultural practices?
Yes, microbes aid in nitrogen fixation, promoting plant growth and soil fertility.
What role do microbes play in waste management?
Microbes assist in biodegradation, breaking down waste and pollutants in the environment.
How are microbes used in food production?
Microbes are used in fermentation to make foods like yogurt, bread, and cheese.
What is biofertilization, and how do microbes help?
Biofertilization is the use of microbes to enhance soil fertility by fixing nutrients and promoting plant growth.
Can microbes help in cleaning up oil spills?
Yes, certain microbes break down oil and petroleum products, aiding in oil spill cleanup.
How do microbes contribute to sewage treatment?
Microbes are used in sewage treatment plants to break down organic matter and purify wastewater.
What is biogas production, and how do microbes contribute?
Biogas is produced by microbes breaking down organic waste in anaerobic conditions, releasing methane gas.
Are all microbes beneficial for human welfare?
No, while many microbes have positive impacts, some can also cause diseases. Proper management is crucial for maximizing benefits while minimizing risks.
