Rates of cell production and cell death are approximately equal during the _____ phase of microbial growth.

• A. Stationary.
• B. Death.
• C. Intermediate.
• D. Lag.
• E. Log.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the phases of microbial growth: Microbial growth typically follows a pattern with distinct phases: lag, log (exponential), stationary, and death.
2. Identify the characteristics of each phase: In the lag phase, cells are adapting to the environment and not dividing rapidly. In the log phase, cells are dividing at an exponential rate. In the stationary phase, the rate of cell production equals the rate of cell death. In the death phase, the rate of cell death exceeds the rate of cell production.
3. Focus on the stationary phase: During the stationary phase, nutrients become limited, and waste products accumulate, leading to a balance between cell division and cell death.
4. Recognize the significance of the stationary phase: This phase is crucial for understanding microbial population dynamics in environments where resources are limited.
5. Apply this knowledge to the problem: Given that the rates of cell production and cell death are approximately equal, the correct phase is the stationary phase.