which of the following is an example of a mold? course hero

What is a mold?

Partially decomposed beech leaf. Molds are organisms that may be found indoors and outdoors. They are part of the natural environment and play an important role in the environment by breaking down and digesting organic material, such as dead leaves.

What is black mold?

Sometimes the news media use the terms "toxic mold" and "black mold" to refer to molds that may produce mycotoxins or for a specific mold, Stachybotrys chartarum. Molds that produce mycotoxins are often referred to as toxigenic fungi. Top of Page.

How do mold spores multiply?

Magnified mold and mold spores. Molds can multiply by producing microscopic spores (2 - 100 microns [µm] in diameter), similar to the seeds produced by plants. Many spores are so small they easily float through the air and can be carried for great distances by even the gentlest breezes. The number of mold spores suspended in indoor ...

Why does mold smell?

Because mVOCs often have strong or unpleasant odors, they can be the source of the "moldy odor" or musty smell frequently associated with mold growth. A moldy odor suggests that mold is growing in the building and should be investigated.

How many mycotoxins are in mold?

More than 200 mycotoxins from common molds have been identified, and many more remain to be identified. The amount and types of mycotoxins produced by a particular mold depends on many environmental and genetic factors. No one can tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it.

How to tell if mold is mycotoxins?

No one can tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it. Some mycotoxins are known to affect people, but for many mycotoxins little health information is available. Research on mycotoxins is ongoing. Exposure to mycotoxins can occur from inhalation, ingestion and skin contact.

What is a biocide?

Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a biocide or a chemical that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup. There may be instances, however, when professional judgment indicates their use (for example, when immune-compromised individuals are present).

What should be determined when mold is found in a building?

If mold is found during a building investigation, the size and extent of the moldy area should be determined. Information on the water or moisture problems that allowed the mold to grow should be evaluated, in part because areas of hidden mold may surround the areas of visible mold.

How to find hidden mold?

Specialized equipment such as borescopes and moisture meters, and in some cases special sampling techniques, may be helpful in locating and identifying hidden mold areas. Investigating hidden mold requires caution since disturbing moldy areas may spread mold throughout the building. Opening and closing air handlers, for example, can send high levels of dust and mold into the air. Personal protective equipment, or PPE is not always needed when looking for mold, but it should always be available. If mold might be released into the air, investigators should use PPE to reduce exposure.

Why should damp odors be noted during a building survey?

During the building survey, any moldy or damp odors should be noted because damp or musty odors suggest that water is or was present and mold growth is likely. Occupant complaints of odors and health problems also should be investigated. Top of Page.

Where is mold on a ceiling?

The top side of ceiling tiles. The underside of carpets and pads. Possible locations of hidden mold also include: Damp areas behind walls and in crawlspaces. Inside pipe chases and utility tunnels (areas in walls where water and other pipes are run) On acoustic liners in ventilation ducts.

Where is mold growing in a house?

Areas that are always or often damp, such as bathrooms, laundry/utility rooms and basements, are common locations for mold growth in homes. Regularly check areas that have been or are likely to get wet. If you hire a home inspector, building inspector, or other professional to locate a water or mold problem, make sure the professional has experience identifying and locating mold and water problems. Check references and look for membership in professional organizations.

Who should conduct mold sampling?

Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpreting the results. Several problems can occur when sampling, for example:

Does mold need light to grow?

In some cases, indoor mold growth may not be obvious. Mold does not need light to grow, it can grow in dark areas and on hidden surfaces such as: