Diatoms b/w Diatoms

Diatoms

Diatoms, a type of algae, are found floating in the phytoplankton of the seas. Their cell walls contain silica. When diatoms die they sink to the sea floor. Their soft parts decay and the silica remains. Over time the pressure of the seawater pushes the silica together to form one large layer. This silica is mined and used as an ingredient in abrasives and polishes.

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Welcome to microbiology online

Microbiologyonline has been devised by the Society for General Microbiology, the leading UK professional body for scientists who work in all areas of microbiology. This inspirational online resource supports the teaching and learning of microbiology in the classroom across the key stages. It explores how microbes can be friend and foe and most importantly, why we need these invisible organisms to live. Microbiologyonline is authoritative and up to date.

Microbe passports

Take a peek down the microscope and explore further the secret world of microbes.

For teachers

Information and advice on all aspects of microbiology teaching - both theory and practice is just a click away.

For students

Curious about microbiology? Ever wondered what a microbe is? Where they can be found? What they do? And much, much more... The answers are here.