Question

In growth curve, maximum growth occurs during

• A. Lag phase
• B. Senescent phase
• C. Decline phase
• D. Exponential phase

Answer 1

The correct option is D Exponential phase

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

Thus, the correct answer is option D.