The phase of the bacterial growth curve that shows the maximum rate of cell division is the
A)lag phase.
B)log phase.
C)stationary phase.
D)death phase.
E)prophase.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The log (exponential) phase is the phase of the bacterial growth curve where the bacteria are actively dividing and the population is increasing exponentially. This is the phase where the maximum rate of cell division occurs. During the lag phase (A), bacteria are adjusting to their new environment and not actively dividing, while in the stationary phase (C), the rate of cell division slows, possibly due to lack of nutrients or buildup of waste products. The death phase (D) is characterized by a net decrease in the number of viable bacteria. Prophase (E) is a stage of mitosis in eukaryotic cells that has no relation to the bacterial growth curve.

The Phase of the Bacterial Growth Curve That Shows the Maximum