Microbiology laboratory technique: In the classic pour plate method for isolating colonies, the mixed culture is first diluted directly in tubes containing what type of medium before being poured into Petri dishes?

Introduction / Context:
The pour plate method is a foundational microbiology technique used to obtain isolated colonies and to enumerate viable cells. Understanding exactly where the initial dilution happens is critical for correct colony distribution and accurate colony-forming unit counts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The procedure referenced is the standard pour plate, not spread plate or serial dilution in saline.
• Molten agar (typically 45–50°C) is used so it will not kill most non-thermophilic bacteria.
• The question asks specifically where the mixed culture is diluted prior to pouring.

Concept / Approach:

In a pour plate, the inoculum is mixed with molten, liquid agar medium inside a tube. This suspends cells throughout the agar. The mixture is then poured into a sterile Petri dish, where it solidifies, trapping cells at varying depths. This is distinct from spread plating, where dilution typically occurs in a separate diluent and the inoculum is spread over a pre-solidified agar surface.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard laboratory manuals describe adding measured inoculum to a tube of molten agar, mixing, and pouring. In contrast, spread plates use diluent like sterile water or saline for serial dilution and then spread a small volume onto solid agar.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Sterile liquid usually water: this describes spread-plate dilutions, not pour plate mixing.

Both (a) and (b): the standard method uses the agar tube itself for dilution, not both.

None of these: incorrect because liquid agar medium is the accepted practice.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing pour plates with spread plates; pouring agar that is too hot and damaging cells; insufficient mixing leading to uneven colony distribution.

Final Answer:

liquid agar medium