Question

multiple choice question

during which phase of growth does the number of new cells balance the number of declining cells?

lag phase
death phase
stationary phase
exponential phase

Explanation:

Identify the characteristics of each bacterial growth phase

• Lag phase: Cells are adjusting to the new environment; little to no division occurs.
• Exponential (log) phase: Cells divide at a maximal, constant rate; rapid population increase.
• Stationary phase: Nutrient depletion and waste accumulation slow growth; rate of cell division equals rate of cell death.
• Death phase: Toxic waste buildup and lack of nutrients cause cell death rate to exceed division rate.

Match the question criteria to the correct phase

• The question asks for the phase where the number of new cells balances the number of declining (dying) cells.
• This dynamic equilibrium occurs during the stationary phase.

Answer:

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