Metal vs. Bacteria

What is a major challenge with using antibiotics frequently?

• Antibiotics become more expensive to produce.

• Bacteria develop resistance to the antibiotics.

• The human body becomes dependent on antibiotics.

• Antibiotics start to harm beneficial bacteria only.

Which two metals were historically used by ancient cultures to prevent infections and keep water safe?

• Iron and Gold

• Aluminum and Zinc

• Copper and Silver

• Lead and Tin

How do copper ions kill bacteria through a process called 'contact killing'?

• They make the bacteria grow too large to survive.

• They create holes in the bacterial membrane and damage internal molecules.

• They cause the bacteria to freeze and stop functioning.

• They attract other bacteria to fight each other.

How is nanosilver currently being used in medical applications?

• As a food additive to prevent spoilage.

• To create stronger surgical tools.

• Embedded in medical implants and as surface coatings to kill bacteria.

• As a new type of vaccine against viruses.