ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Microorganisms

Microorganisms are tiny living things that are so small, you can't see them without a microscope. They are really interesting because even though they are so small, they play a big role in our world.

You might have heard of some microorganisms already, like bacteria or viruses. These are the ones that can sometimes make us sick, but there are also many other types of microorganisms that are very helpful to us. For example, some microorganisms live in our gut (our belly) and help us digest food. Others can break down waste and help the environment.

The thing about microorganisms is that they are everywhere. They can be in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and even on our skin. They are very adaptable and can survive in many different conditions, from extreme heat to freezing cold.

One of the coolest things about microorganisms is that they can reproduce really quickly. Some bacteria, for example, can divide in two every twenty minutes. That means that in just a few hours, one single bacterium can turn into billions of bacteria.

Scientists study microorganisms because they are so important to the world and to our health. By learning about them, we can find ways to use them to help us and even find ways to fight the harmful ones that can make us sick. By understanding the amazing and diverse world of microorganisms, we can learn to appreciate the tiniest creatures that share our planet.