what is sebum and how could it have affected the handwashing experimental outcome?
do some research to find out what sebum is and answer in respect to resident and transient microbes
Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. It is composed of fats, waxes, and various other substances, and its main function is to protect and lubricate the skin and hair.
Sebum can affect the outcome of a handwashing experiment in several ways. Firstly, the presence of sebum on the skin can act as a barrier, preventing water and soap from effectively reaching and removing microbes. This can result in a less thorough handwashing process and potentially leave behind harmful bacteria.
In terms of resident and transient microbes, sebum can provide a favorable environment for some bacteria to thrive. Resident microbes, which are normally found on the skin, can be protected by the sebum and may not be completely removed during handwashing. On the other hand, transient microbes, which are acquired from the environment, can also be trapped in the sebum and not effectively washed away.
Overall, the presence of sebum on the skin can hinder the efficacy of handwashing by acting as a barrier to the removal of both resident and transient microbes. It is important to ensure thorough handwashing practices to effectively remove sebum and reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.