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Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry reactions, why is the clear area surrounding an antibiotic disk called the zone of inhibition?
A
It shows the region where the antibiotic has been neutralized by enzymes.
B
It marks the area where bacteria have developed resistance to the antibiotic.
C
It represents the zone where the antibiotic has evaporated.
D
It indicates the area where the antibiotic has successfully killed bacteria.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of the 'zone of inhibition': In microbiology, the zone of inhibition is a clear area surrounding an antibiotic disk on an agar plate, indicating the effectiveness of the antibiotic against bacteria.
Recognize the purpose of the antibiotic disk: The disk contains a specific concentration of an antibiotic, which diffuses into the agar and inhibits bacterial growth in its vicinity.
Identify the correct interpretation of the clear area: The clear area, or zone of inhibition, is where bacterial growth has been prevented due to the antibiotic's action, not because of neutralization, resistance, or evaporation.
Eliminate incorrect options: The zone of inhibition does not indicate neutralization by enzymes, resistance development, or evaporation of the antibiotic, as these would not result in a clear area.
Conclude with the correct explanation: The zone of inhibition indicates the area where the antibiotic has successfully killed or inhibited the growth of bacteria, demonstrating its effectiveness.