Microbiology quiz
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Science journalist and executive editor of Big Think, Alex Berezow, tested ChatGPT with a 10-question microbiology quiz that he devised.
Berezow, who also holds a Ph.D in microbiology, noted that the questions would be appropriate for a final exam for college level students. ChatGPT “blew it away,” Berezow wrote.
In one example, Berezow asked:
“An emergency room patient presents with a terrible headache and stiff neck. The doctor orders a spinal tap to collect cerebrospinal fluid. A Gram stain of the CSF reveals the presence of Gram negative diplococci. What is the diagnosis?”
To which ChatGPT correctly responded:
Based on the information you provided, the Gram stain of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shows the presence of Gram-negative diplococci, which are bacteria that are typically oval-shaped and occur in pairs. This finding is consistent with the diagnosis of meningitis.
In another instance he asked:
“In five words or less, what is the point of Koch’s postulates?”
To which ChatGPT said:
Establish causality between microbe and disease.
Taking out the word “and” Berezow said ChatGPT “Nailed it.”