Mold Remediation Certification Practice Exam

What does 'viable' refer to in a biological context?

1. Dead or incapable of sustaining life

2. Alive or capable of sustaining life

3. Only dormant states of life

4. Life forms that cannot reproduce

The correct answer is: Alive or capable of sustaining life

In a biological context, 'viable' refers to organisms or biological entities that are alive and capable of sustaining life. This means they have the ability to grow, reproduce, and carry out essential metabolic processes. When discussing viability, it typically pertains to cells, spores, or microorganisms that can divide, flourish, and maintain homeostasis. The distinction is important because it reflects the capability of an organism to not only exist but to thrive under appropriate conditions. For instance, viable spores of mold can colonize a new area when conditions become favorable. The other options present definitions that misrepresent the concept of viability. For example, referring to something that is dead or incapable of sustaining life directly contradicts the definition of viable since viability inherently implies life. Additionally, merely pointing to dormant states fails to capture the essence of viability, as dormant organisms can still be considered viable if they can revive under the right conditions. Lastly, implying that viable organisms cannot reproduce mischaracterizes the fundamental aspect of viability, as the capacity for reproduction is a key characteristic of living organisms.