Hydrophilic colloids Generally consist of macromolecules, such as proteins and synthetic polymers, that are characterized by strong interaction with water resulting in spontaneous formation of colloids when they are placed in water. Hydrophobic colloids Interact to a lesser extent with water and are stable because of their positive or negative electrical charges. Association colloids Consist of special aggregates of ions and molecules called micells. Micells A spherical cluster formed by the aggregation of soap molecules in water. Fungi Nonphotosynthetic organisms, larger than bacteria, aerobic and can thrive in more acidic media than bacteria.
Important function is the break down of cellulose in wood and other plant materials.
Protozoa Microscopic animals consisting of single eukaryotic cells. Algae Microscopic organisms that subsist on inorganic nutrients and produce organic matter from carbon dioxide by photosynthesis. Prokaryotes Microorganisms that lack a nuclear membrane so that their nuclear genetic material is more diffuse in the cell. Eurkaryotes Have well defined cell nuclei enclosed by a nuclear membrane. Producers Utilize light energy and store it as chemical energy.