Viruses and Monerans: Bacteria in Our Lives

Bacteria, often associated with disease, play crucial roles in various beneficial processes. They are essential in food production, such as in making cheese and yogurt. Bacteria also contributed to the formation of fossil fuels millions of years ago. In the human body, they aid digestion and help fight diseases. Additionally, bacteria are used to produce antibiotics, which combat infections. In wastewater treatment plants, bacteria break down waste, preventing environmental damage.

Which of the following foods is produced with the help of bacteria?

• Rice

• Pasta

• Cheese

• Bread

What role did bacteria play millions of years ago in the formation of fossil fuels?

• They transformed blue-green algae into oil.

• They decomposed plant material into coal.

• They converted sunlight into energy.

• They created natural gas from water.

How do bacteria in our intestines benefit us?

• By producing vitamins

• By causing infections

• By creating antibodies

• By digesting food

What is the primary function of antibiotics produced by some bacteria?

• To enhance digestion

• To fight infections

• To produce energy

• To create vitamins

What is the role of bacteria in wastewater treatment plants?

• To remove chemicals

• To filter water

• To break down waste

• To add nutrients