Define Bacterial Growth
Bacterial growth is defined as the division of one bacterium into two cells, taking place by a process called binary fission.
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Divide and Multiply
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One initial bacteria cell eventually becomes millions. Each cell divides into two cells in minutes, making for the exponential rate at which bacteria population increases.
Binary Fission
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Binary fission is the asexual method of reproduction that is employed by bacterium. The DNA of each cell is first replicated then attaches itself to the plasma membrane.
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Cytokinesis
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Once the DNA is attached to the membrane, the cell elongates by growing inward and splits into two separate entities. This process is referred to as cytokinesis.
Early Stages
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Bacteria growth undergoes four stages. The first two stages are the the lag phase, where growth is slow at first, and the log phase, where the amount of bacteria doubles every few minutes.
Late Stages
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The final two stages of growth are the stationary phase, where growth stabilizes due to competition for nutrients among a high number of bacteria, and the death phase, where waste builds up and nutrients run out, allowing for the bacteria to die off.
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