History of Microbiology

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the history of microbiology, including significant figures, principles, and discoveries.

Spontaneous Generation

The belief that living organisms could arise from nonliving matter.

Biogenesis

The principle that living cells arise only from preexisting living cells.

Koch’s Postulates

A series of criteria to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease.

Aseptic Technique

Procedures that prevent contamination by unwanted microorganisms.

Germ Theory of Disease

The theory that microorganisms can cause disease.

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek

The scientist known for his work on the development of the microscope and for being the first to observe microorganisms.

Louis Pasteur

A key figure in microbiology who disproved spontaneous generation and developed pasteurization and vaccines.

Robert Koch

A microbiologist known for his work on anthrax and for establishing Koch’s Postulates.

Fermentation

The microbial conversion of sugars into alcohol or acids.

Vaccination

The administration of a vaccine to promote immunity against a disease.