🦠microbiology review

Chamberland

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Chamberland is a type of porcelain filter invented by Charles Chamberland in 1884. It is used to remove bacteria from liquids, making it crucial for studying viruses and controlling microbial growth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Chamberland filter was instrumental in the discovery of viruses as it could filter out bacteria but not viruses.
  2. Charles Chamberland worked with Louis Pasteur, contributing significantly to the field of microbiology.
  3. The filter operates by passing liquid through a porous ceramic material that traps bacterial cells.
  4. It was one of the first tools to demonstrate that some infectious agents were smaller than bacteria.
  5. Chamberland filters are still used today in various forms for laboratory sterilization processes.
2,589 studying →