Question

Which of the following is a characteristic of diauxic growth?

• A. A single exponential growth phase
• B. Two distinct exponential growth phases
• C. A prolonged lag phase
• D. A rapid death phase

Hint:

Diauxic growth pattern: \[ \boxed{ \text{Log phase} \rightarrow \text{Lag} \rightarrow \text{Second log phase} } \] It is commonly observed when glucose and lactose are present together.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Recall the meaning of diauxic growth. Diauxic growth occurs when microorganisms are supplied with two different carbon sources. They first consume the preferred substrate, followed by a short lag phase before utilizing the second substrate.

Step 2: Identify the growth pattern. The growth curve therefore shows \[ \boxed{ \text{Two distinct exponential growth phases} } \] separated by a brief lag phase. Hence, \[ \boxed{(B)} \] is the correct answer.