Question

During the bacterial growth curve, the phase in which bacteria multiply at the fastest rate is the:

• A. Lag phase
• B. Exponential (log) phase
• C. Stationary phase
• D. Death phase

Hint:

Log phase = Fastest growth. It's exponential because the population doubles rapidly — ideal conditions, unlimited nutrients.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The bacterial growth curve includes four main phases: Lag phase, Exponential (log) phase, Stationary phase, and Death phase.
- In the lag phase, bacteria adjust to their new environment, synthesizing necessary enzymes, but not dividing rapidly yet.
- The exponential (log) phase is when bacteria multiply at a constant and maximum rate, with the population doubling at regular intervals. This is the fastest growth period under optimal conditions.
- In the stationary phase, the rate of bacterial growth slows due to nutrient depletion and accumulation of waste products. Birth and death rates balance out.
- Finally, in the death phase, bacteria die at a faster rate than they reproduce, leading to a decline in population.
Therefore, the exponential (log) phase is the correct answer as it represents the phase of maximum bacterial multiplication.