Microbial Growth

These flashcards cover key concepts and details from the lecture on microbial growth, focusing on bacterial reproduction, growth phases, measurement techniques, environmental influences, and survival strategies.

Bacteria multiply by __.

binary fission

During binary fission, the cell prepares to divide in the __ step.

Cell Grows

In binary fission, the second step involves __ replication.

DNA

Doubling time varies based on nutrient availability, temperature, and __.

species

The __ Phase is when cells adapt and prepare for growth without dividing.

Lag

During the Log Phase, cells divide rapidly at a __ rate.

constant

In the Stationary Phase, growth slows due to limited __.

resources

The final phase is the Death Phase, where cells die faster than they __.

reproduce

Scientists measure bacterial growth to know how many __ are present in a sample.

bacteria

Serial dilution makes counting bacteria __.

easier

A spectrophotometer measures __ to estimate bacterial population.

turbidity

Bacteria need specific physical and chemical conditions like pH, __, and oxygen availability to thrive.

temperature

Most bacteria prefer environments that are close to __ pH.

neutral

Acidophiles thrive in __ environments such as hot springs.

acidic

Mesophiles are found in moderate temperatures including those in the __ body.

human

Aerobes require __ for energy, unlike anaerobes.

oxygen

Bacteria that thrive in high salt environments are called __.

halophiles

Autotrophs use __ carbon, such as CO₂, while heterotrophs use organic carbon.

inorganic

Phototrophs capture light energy for __.

growth

Defined media have an exact __ composition known for experiments.

chemical

Complex media supports growth of a wide variety of bacteria but its composition is __.

unknown

Blood agar is an example of __ media that supports fastidious organisms.

enriched

Selective media promote the growth of certain bacteria and suppress __.

others

Biofilms are __ communities of bacteria that provide protection and resource sharing.

structured

Quorum sensing in bacteria is like a __ network that triggers group behaviors.

social

Endospores are formed by bacteria during __ when conditions become harsh.

sporulation

Germination occurs when endospores return to the __ state under favorable conditions.

vegetative

The thick layer that helps spores resist damage from water loss is called the __.

Cortex