New York Tattoo License Practice Test

What are the characteristics of microorganisms?

1. All microorganisms are harmful

2. Only certain bacteria can cause infections

3. Microorganisms are always visible

4. They do not exist in the human body

The correct answer is: Only certain bacteria can cause infections

The statement that only certain bacteria can cause infections accurately reflects the nature of microorganisms. It recognizes that while bacteria are a category of microorganisms capable of causing diseases, not all bacteria do. In fact, many bacteria are beneficial and play essential roles in processes such as digestion and maintaining a healthy gut flora. This option highlights the variability among microorganisms, where some can be pathogenic—that is, capable of causing disease—while others are harmless or even beneficial to humans. This differentiation is important for understanding microbiology and its impact on health, emphasizing that the relationship between humans and certain bacteria is complex. Other choices present misconceptions about microorganisms. For instance, claiming that all microorganisms are harmful ignores the existence of beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms that contribute positively to health. The idea that microorganisms are always visible contradicts the fact that many microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, are microscopic and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Lastly, the assertion that microorganisms do not exist in the human body is false, as the human body is home to billions of microorganisms that are crucial for various bodily functions.