Growing bacteria in the lab Flashcards
What is binary fusion?
Binary fusion is when bacteria divide rapidly through simple cell division.
What is a culture medium?
A liquid or gel containing nutrients to grow microorganisms
Why is it important to have uncontaminated cultures of microorganisms?
Because if they’re contaminated they may mutate and become dangerous.
Where can contamination come from? Name 3 sources.
Skin, the air, water, other surfaces.
Why are cultures incubated at high temperatures?
High temperatures enable them to grow quicker.
What is the first step to growing useful organisms?
All equipment must be sterilised, as well as the nutrient agar to kill off any unwanted organisms.
What is the second step to growing useful organisms?
Secondly, the microorganisms that you want to grow must be introduced to the sterile agar.
What is the final step to growing useful organisms?
Once the plates have been inoculated, the secured petri dishes must be incubated/kept warm for several days to allow the microorganisms to grow. This should be done upside down so condensation does not fall from the lid to the agar surface.
