Which bacteriophage infection cycle results in the rapid destruction of the host cell?

• A. Lysogenic cycle
• B. Lytic cycle
• C. Chronic cycle
• D. Latent cycle

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the two main bacteriophage infection cycles: the lytic cycle and the lysogenic cycle.
2. In the lytic cycle, the bacteriophage injects its DNA into the host cell, takes over the host's machinery to produce new phage particles, and then causes the host cell to burst (lyse), releasing new phages rapidly.
3. In contrast, the lysogenic cycle involves the integration of the phage DNA into the host genome, where it can remain dormant for a period without destroying the host cell immediately.
4. The chronic and latent cycles are less commonly discussed but generally involve prolonged infection without immediate host cell destruction.
5. Therefore, the infection cycle that results in the rapid destruction of the host cell is the lytic cycle.