Which of the following methods provides information about the number of living cells in a sample of bacterial culture?
A) serial dilution and viable plate count
B) membrane filtration
C) a Petroff-Hauser counting chamber
D) flow cytometry
E) a Coulter counter

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Serial dilution and viable plate count is the most accurate method for determining the number of living cells in a bacterial culture. This method involves diluting the sample and then spreading it on agar plates to allow for the growth of individual colonies that can be counted. This provides a measure of the number of viable (living) cells in the sample. Membrane filtration, a Petroff-Hauser counting chamber, flow cytometry, and a Coulter counter can provide information about the total cell count, but do not distinguish between living and dead cells.

Which of the Following Methods Provides Information About the Number