Growth curve

Definition

A growth curve is a graphical representation of the change in the number of microbes in a population over time. It typically includes distinct phases: lag, log (exponential), stationary, and death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The lag phase is where microbes adapt to their environment before beginning to divide rapidly.
2. The log phase, or exponential phase, is characterized by rapid microbial population increase.
3. During the stationary phase, the rate of microbial growth equals the rate of microbial death due to nutrient depletion and waste accumulation.
4. In the death phase, the number of dying cells exceeds the number of new cells being produced.
5. Growth curves are essential for understanding microbial kinetics and optimizing conditions for culture growth in laboratory settings.

Review Questions

Related terms

Lag Phase:

Initial period where microbes acclimate to their environment without significant division.

Log Phase: Period of exponential population increase under optimal conditions.

Stationary Phase:

Phase where microbial growth rate equals the death rate due to limited resources.