Which direct enumeration method differentiates living from nonliving cells?
a. Manual cell counts
b. Measuring dry weight of cells
c. Viable plate count
d. Measuring biochemical activity
e. Coulter counter

Direct enumeration methods involve counting cells individually, either manually or with instruments. These methods provide a total cell count but may not distinguish between living and dead cells unless combined with viability indicators.

Viable plate count measures only living cells by culturing them on nutrient media. Each colony arises from a single viable cell, allowing quantification of living microorganisms, unlike total counts that include dead cells.

Differentiating living from nonliving cells requires methods that assess metabolic activity or the ability to reproduce. Techniques like viable plate counts or staining methods target only living cells, unlike physical counts or biomass measurements.