Topic 6 - Key Words Flashcards
Agar cultures
Culturing organisms using a solid agar jelly medium.
Aseptic techniques
Microbiological techniques used which minimise or prevent contamination by microorganisms.
Broth cultures
The culturing of microorganisms using a liquid medium.
Cell counts
A method of measuring the amount of microorganisms in a medium, often carried out using a hemocytometer.
Death phase
The decrease in the number of bacteria caused by the depletion of nutrients or other unfavourable conditions.
Dilution plating
The process of diluting a sample of microorganisms by a known amount so that the individual cells can be counted.
Growth medium
A sterile liquid or gel used to support the growth of microorganisms by providing nutrients in the correct quantities.
Hemocytometer
A microscope slide with a specific size chamber and grid used for counting cells in a specific volume.
Lag phase
The period where microorganisms adjust to a new environment and take up nutrients without significant division.
Log phase
A period of rapid cell proliferation where the population size increases exponentially.
Microbial turbidity
The cloudiness of a solution based on microorganism concentration, used to analyze growth.
Selective media
Media with specific chemicals that promote the growth of certain microorganisms and inhibit others.
Stationary phase
The period where the population size remains constant due to limiting factors like nutrient scarcity.
