6.4—Core Practical 13 - microorganism growth rate

To investigate microbial growth, inoculate a known medium, incubate under controlled conditions and measure a consistent proxy at regular intervals. Aseptic technique prevents contaminants changing the curve.

Use replicates, a blank or negative control, calibrated dilution or turbidity measurement, and safe containment. Plot the proxy against time and identify where the rate changes.

If absorbance rises while a blank stays stable, the culture likely became more turbid; a calibration or viable count is needed before converting that reading into cell number.

A single endpoint cannot establish a growth rate, and open cultures or unsafe disposal can expose people to pathogens. Follow the specified containment level.