Biology/Biology
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Question
Why were humans unaware of microrganisms for most of thier history?
Thanks for using AllExperts. The most likely reason for this lack of awareness was a lack of sufficiently complex scientific technology. Microorganisms are too small to see--hence the name--but the first technology capable of visualizing them was only produced in the 16th century. It took some time after that to accurately characterize what microorganisms are, because people did not understand what they were seeing at first. Thus only from late 17th-18th century were microorganisms characterized, and it took much longer than that for their role in disease to be accepted.
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Answers by Expert:
John Locke
Expertise
I will answer all biology-related questions through the undergraduate level. I will explain unclear concepts and suggest approaches to solving problems, but would prefer not to completely solve homework problems for you. If you are completely stumped on homework, tell me what you already know and I will help you as much as possible. Please do not ask me for ideas on school research projects; part of research is determining a suitable area of investigation, and that's not a task that should be completed by someone else. Please don't simply send me your homework for solutions. If you are having difficulty after you have started an analysis, I will be happy to direct your thinking; in particular, I would prefer to not simply solve pedigrees for students, but I will be happy to assist in solving pedigrees that you have already started. If you don't understand how to analyze a pedigree, I'd highly recommend watching this video, in which a biology professor explains the basic concepts of pedigree analysis: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbIHjsn5cHo
Experience
I have a BS in Bioengineering with a concentration in Chemical Engineering (which included a heavy focus on biology), and have taught biology, biochemistry, and related subjects for some time now.
Education/Credentials
BS Bioengineering, Penn State University
MCAT/DAT/OAT Instructor
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