Understanding What Bacteria Are
Bacteria are tiny single-celled organisms found almost everywhere on Earth. They live in water, soil, air, plants, animals, and even inside the human body.
How Bacteria Work
Bacteria perform basic life processes like eating, growing, and reproducing. They divide quickly, creating new copies of themselves in a matter of minutes or hours.
Good vs. Harmful Bacteria
Many bacteria are helpful. They aid digestion, produce vitamins, and support ecosystems. Harmful bacteria, however, can cause infections or illness when they enter the body.
Where Bacteria Are Found
They exist in extreme environments such as hot springs, deep oceans, and frozen regions. They adapt easily and thrive in conditions where many other organisms cannot survive.
How the Body Deals With Harmful Bacteria
The immune system detects and attacks dangerous bacteria. Antibiotics can also kill or slow harmful bacterial growth, though misuse can lead to resistance.
The Simple Takeaway
Bacteria are microscopic organisms that live everywhere. Some help keep us healthy, while others cause illness. Their ability to grow and adapt makes them essential to life.