Fill in the blank: The basic unit of life, which is essential for all living organisms, is called a ___.

Cell

True or False: All microorganisms are multicellular.

False; many microorganisms are unicellular.

What are the main differences between plant and animal cells?

Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large vacuole, while animal cells lack a cell wall and have smaller vacuoles.

Riddle: I am tiny but mighty, found in soil and water, I help decompose waste and keep the earth in order. What am I?

Microorganisms

How do magnifying glasses and microscopes enhance our understanding of the microscopic world?

They bend light to enlarge images of small objects, allowing us to observe details not visible to the naked eye.

Fill in the blank: The jelly-like substance inside a cell is called ___.

Cytoplasm

What is the significance of Robert Hooke's observations in the development of cell theory?

Hooke's observations advanced cell theory.

• First use of 'cell' term.

• Identified structure in cork.

• Foundation for cell theory.

What special adaptations do muscle and nerve cells have that relate to their functions?

Muscle cells are spindle-shaped for contraction and relaxation, while nerve cells are long and branched for quick message transmission.

Fill in the blank: The process by which yeast ferments sugars to make dough rise involves the release of ___.

Carbon dioxide

True or False: Microalgae contribute significantly to the oxygen supply of the Earth.

True; they perform photosynthesis and release a large amount of oxygen.

How do Rhizobium bacteria improve soil fertility?

Rhizobium bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use, enriching the soil naturally.

What is the role of vacuoles in plant cells?

Vacuoles store nutrients, waste products, and help maintain cell shape and turgidity.

What significant role did Antonie van Leeuwenhoek play in the study of microorganisms?

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek was crucial in microbiology.

• Improved microscope lenses significantly.

• First to observe living cells.

• Earned title 'Father of Microbiology.'