Question

multiple choice question

which phase of bacterial growth involves more cells dying than reproducing?

lag
death
stationary
exponential

Explanation:

Identify the characteristics of each bacterial growth phase

• Lag phase: Cells are adapting to the new environment; little to no division occurs, and death is minimal.
• Exponential (log) phase: Cells are dividing at their maximum rate; reproduction vastly exceeds cell death.
• Stationary phase: Nutrient depletion and waste accumulation cause the rate of cell division to equal the rate of cell death.
• Death phase: Toxic waste buildup and lack of nutrients cause the rate of cell death to exceed the rate of reproduction.

Match the question criteria to the correct phase

• The question asks for the phase where "more cells are dying than reproducing."
• This matches the definition of the death phase.

Answer:

• Lag
• Death (Correct answer)
• Stationary
• Exponential