1. When an agar plate is inoculated, why is the loop sterilized after the initial inoculum is put on?
2. Distinguish between a pure culture and a mixed culture.
3. Define a bacterial colony. List four characteristics by which bacterial colonies may
be distinguished.
4. Why should a Petri dish not be left open for any extended period?
5. Why does the streaking method you used to inoculate your plates result in isolated colonies?