Question

Exponential growth is shown during

• A. Lag phase
• B. Log phase
• C. Maturation phase
• D. Senescence phase

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Log phase

Bacterial growth is divided into four phases, namely lag phase, log phase, stationary phase and death phase. In lag phase, there is very little or no bacterial growth. In this phase, bacteria are adjusting to environment and synthesizing biochemicals and nutrients. In log phase, the number of bacterial cells doubles at an exponential rate. This phase shows maximum or exponential growth. In stationary phase, the rate of cell death is equal to the rate of cell division. In death phase, there is decrease in the bacterial population due to lack of nutrients and high toxin concentration.

Thus, the correct answer is option B.