Question

Upon inoculation into a new nutrient medium, the bacteria shows four distinct phases of growth (Lag phase, Log phase, Stationary phase and Phase of decline). Choose the correct option with respect to proportion of viable bacteria over a period of time in various phases.
(A). Lag phase: Total number of metabolically active (but not dividing) bacteria is low.
(B). Log phase: Total number of bacteria is high in which number of dying cells is higher than number of dividing cells.
(C). Stationary phase: Total number of bacteria is constant in which number of dividing cells is equal to the number of dying cells.
(D). Phase of decline: Total number of bacteria may be high in which number of dying cells is higher than number of dividing cells.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (B) and (D) only
• B. (A) and (C) only
• C. (C) and (D) only
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only

Hint:

To remember the biological dynamics of each growth phase:
- Lag: Adaptation occurs; cell division is zero.
- Log: Growth and division far exceed death.
- Stationary: Growth and division are equal to death.
- Decline: Death exceeds growth and division.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C