Question

Diatoms are also called ‘pearls of ocean’, why? What is diatomaceous earth?

Answer 1

Pearls of ocean

Diatoms have overlapping cell walls that are impregnated with a lot of silica deposit. This gives the diatoms, a glossy and shiny surface. So it is called ‘pearl of the ocean’

Diatomaceous earth

Fossilised remains of the cell wall of diatoms found in the bottom of the ocean contain a lot of silica and is called diatomaceous earth. This is abrasive and used in polishing surfaces.