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AAeratorA faucet spout-end device mixing air and water to produce a soft and white aerated stream. BBacteriaA microscopic single-celled living organism that reproduces by cell division. Bacteria are present in the environment through soil, water and air. Some forms of bacteria are undesirable and can cause infections and disease in humans and animals. Biofilm A slime layer which naturally develops when microorganisms attach to an inert support that is made of a material such as stone, metals, plastics or wood. CColonizationImplantation and multiplication of microorganisms on a specific site or surface. Contamination Introduction into water, air or soil of microorganisms in a concentration that makes the medium unfit for its next intended use. Also applies to surfaces of objects, buildings and various household products. EEnvironmentA combination of surroundings and external factors that influence the development and survival of an organism or group of organisms. FFomiteAn inanimate object (such as a door handle) which may act as a carrier for transmitting microorganisms. Fungus A group of primitive organisms including mold, mildew, mushrooms and yeast. IIonAn atom that has lost or gained electrons from its outer shell and therefore has a positive or negative charge symbolized by a superscript plus or minus and sometimes a number. For example: Ag+ (silver ion). LLaminarA non-turbulent stream. In faucet spout-end terminology a non-aerated, non-splashing crystal clear water stream. Logarithm reduction The power to which a number is raised. In a microbial environment population growth or reduction is often reported in terms of log. For example: log 5 reduction = 99.999%, log 3 reduction = 99.9% MMicroorganismAn organism that can only be seen under a microscope. Microorganisms include protozoa, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Microbe A shortened term for microorganism. NNosocomialAn infection acquired by a patient while in a hospital or healthcare institution. Nutrient A substance that provides nourishment for the growth of an organism. WWater hardnessUsually expressed in part per million (ppm) of dissolved calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate. Deposits from hard water affect stream quality in faucet aerators and laminar flow devices and provide support for biofilm. YYeastA single-celled organism of the fungi family that is able to reproduce rapidly by budding or fission. ZZeoliteA mineral containing hydrated aluminum silicates that form into a crystalline structure where molecules are held.
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