Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Silver is a chemical element with symbol Ag (from Latin argentum) and atomic number 47. In biology, silver ions have strong antimicrobial effects against bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi.
Related terms
Antimicrobial: An agent that kills microorganisms or stops their growth.
Silver Nitrate: A compound used in some medical procedures as an antimicrobial.
Agar Plate: A dish filled with a gelatinous substance derived from seaweed and is often mixed with nutrients and/or antibiotics to grow bacteria for observation. Silver can be added to these plates to study its antimicrobial effects.