Illinois Nail Technician Practice Exam

What percentage of bacteria is classified as non-pathogenic?

1. 10%

2. 50%

3. 70%

4. 90%

The correct answer is: 70%

The classification of bacteria as non-pathogenic refers to those types of bacteria that do not cause disease in humans or animals. It is widely accepted in microbiology that a significant majority of bacteria, approximately 70% to 90%, fall into the non-pathogenic category. This means that they are either harmless or beneficial, playing important roles in processes such as digestion, decomposition, and nutrient cycling. When considering the vast number of bacterial species on Earth, the non-pathogenic ones greatly outnumber those that are pathogenic (disease-causing). The figure presented reflects the understanding that while pathogens do exist and can be harmful, the large proportion of bacteria in our environment and within our bodies contribute positively without causing illness. Thus, the selected percentage effectively conveys the overwhelming presence of non-pathogenic bacteria in the broader context of microbial life, reinforcing the importance of understanding this classification in the study of microbiology and its implications for health and disease management.