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"Germ" vs. "bacterium" – a microscopic exploration
Lloyd Cooper 08/10/2024, 20:40
What is similar?
Both terms are related to microbiology and refer to microscopic organisms. Both can cause diseases in humans and other living organisms.
What is different?
Germ is a broad term that can refer to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms, while bacterium specifically refers to a single microscopic cellular organism that belongs to the domain Bacteria. Germ is often used in a more general context, sometimes referring to anything that causes disease, whereas bacterium is a scientific term used to classify and describe specific types of microorganisms.
Which one is more common?
Examples of usage
Germ- Washing your hands frequently can help prevent the spread of germs.
- The common cold is caused by a virus, which is one type of germ.
- He used disinfectant wipes to kill germs on the kitchen counter.
- Escherichia coli is a well-known bacterium often used in scientific research.
- Not all bacteria are harmful; in fact, many play beneficial roles in our bodies.
- The bacterium was identified under the microscope as part of the infection diagnostics process.
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