Final answer:
The four types of pathogens, from smallest to largest, are viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four types of pathogens, from smallest to largest, are:
- Viruses: Viruses are the smallest type of pathogen. They are made up of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat. Examples of viral diseases include the common cold and influenza.
- Bacteria: Bacteria are larger than viruses and are single-celled organisms. They have a cell wall and can be found in different shapes, such as rod-shaped or round. Examples of bacterial diseases include tuberculosis and strep throat.
- Fungi: Fungi are larger than bacteria and are eukaryotic organisms. They can be unicellular, like yeast, or multicellular, like mushrooms. Fungal diseases include ringworm and athlete's foot.
- Parasites: Parasites are the largest type of pathogen. They can be protozoa, worms, or arthropods. Examples of parasitic diseases include malaria and hookworm infection.