Question

Explain lag phase, log phase and steady phase of growth.

Answer 1

1. The growth curve in plants is usually sigmoid, i.e. S-shaped. This is because growth begins slowly during the formative phase, accelerates during the elongation phase, and then slows to a stable level during the maturation period.
2. The conventional growth curve comprises three distinct phases: lag, log, and stationary.
   1. Lag phase or first growth phase:
      This is the beginning of the growth process. The rate of growth is sluggish throughout this stage of development. It relates to the formative phase of growth, during which new cells are generated as a result of cell division.
   2. Log phase or exponential phase:
      This is the second stage of development. Growth is quick and explosive during this stage. It corresponds to the cell elongation phase.
   3. Stationary phase or steady phase:
      The stationary phase is the third and final growth phase. Growth slows and becomes more consistent throughout this stage. During the stationary phase, the cells differentiate.