Consider the following statements:
1. Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature above the boiling point of water.
2. Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperature below the freezing point of water.
3. Some microorganisms can grow in highly acidic environment with a pH below 3.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Answer: C
The correct answer is (c), All three.
Microorganisms are incredibly diverse and can be found in almost every environment on Earth, including some of the most extreme environments. Some microorganisms can grow in environments with temperatures above the boiling point of water, while others can grow in environments with temperatures below the freezing point of water. Some microorganisms can even grow in highly acidic environments with a pH below 3.
Here are some examples of microorganisms that can grow in extreme environments:
- Thermophiles are microorganisms that can grow in high-temperature environments. Some thermophiles can grow in temperatures as high as 113°C (235°F).
- Psychrophiles are microorganisms that can grow in low-temperature environments. Some psychrophiles can grow in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F).
- Acidophiles are microorganisms that can grow in acidic environments. Some acidophiles can grow in environments with a pH as low as 0.
