Chamberland filters

Definition

Chamberland filters are porcelain filters used to remove bacteria from liquids by passing the liquid through pores small enough to trap bacterial cells. These filters were pivotal in the discovery of viruses as entities smaller than bacteria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chamberland filters were invented by Charles Chamberland in 1884.
2. These filters can remove bacteria but not viruses, which helped scientists understand that some pathogens are smaller than bacteria.
3. They were essential in the experiments that led to the discovery of the tobacco mosaic virus.
4. The pore size of Chamberland filters is typically around 0.1-1 micrometers, too large to trap viruses.
5. Chamberland filters are made from unglazed porcelain, which acts as a sieve.

Review Questions

Related terms

Virus:

A microscopic infectious agent capable of replicating only inside living cells.

Tobacco Mosaic Virus:

The first virus ever discovered, identified using Chamberland filters.

Porcelain Filter: A filtration device made from unglazed porcelain used for removing microorganisms from fluids.