Binary Fission: Process and Steps

Questions and Answers

What is binary fission?

The division of a bacterial cell.

The steps of binary fission include the parent cell enlarges and duplicates _____

DNA

In binary fission, septum formation divides the cell into two _____ chambers.

separate

What is generation time?

Time required for a complete division cycle. Signup and view all the answers

What phases are included in the growth curve?

Lag phase Signup and view all the answers

What occurs during the lag phase?

Cells are adjusting, enlarging, and synthesizing proteins and metabolites. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the log phase?

Maximum exponential growth rate of cell division. Signup and view all the answers

What happens during the stationary phase?

Survival mode, depletion in nutrients, released waste can inhibit growth. Signup and view all the answers

What is the death phase?

Majority of cells begin to die due to lack of nutrients. Signup and view all the answers

What methods are used for the enumeration of bacteria?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What does turbidity refer to?

Cloudiness of bacteria that can be seen with the naked eye. Signup and view all the answers

What is direct cell count?

Counting of total dead and live cells in a special microscopic slide containing a pre-measured grid. Signup and view all the answers

What is an automated device/cell counter?

An electronic sensor to detect and count the number of cells. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in bacteria involving cell division.

Steps of Binary Fission

Parent cell enlarges, DNA is duplicated.
Septum formation occurs, dividing the cell into two chambers.
Cell division results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

Generation Time

Refers to the duration needed for one complete division cycle.
Indicates the growth rate of bacteria, measured exponentially to outline bacterial population increase.

Growth Curve Phases

Lag Phase: Cells adapt, grow, and synthesize proteins; no maximum growth occurs.
Log Phase: Rapid exponential growth under optimal nutrient and environmental conditions.
Stationary Phase: Nutrient depletion and waste accumulation stabilize cell numbers; growth rate equals death rate.
Death Phase: High cell mortality due to nutrient exhaustion; experiments can use a chemostat to maintain nutrient levels and prevent this phase.

Enumeration of Bacteria

Methods to quantify bacterial populations:
- Turbidity: Cloudiness visible to the eye, indicating bacterial presence.
- Direct Cell Count: Total of live and dead cells counted using a special slide with a measured grid.
- Automated Devices/Cell Counters: Utilize electronic sensors for accurate cell counting.

Description

Explore the fascinating process of binary fission through this engaging set of flashcards. Understand each step involved, from cell enlargement to the formation of two identical cells, and learn about generation time as a measure of growth rate.