Scribd
Upload
6 views

Lab note

The document outlines the procedure for preparing and sterilizing agar media for microbial culture, detailing the necessary materials and step-by-step instructions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining sterility and avoiding common mistakes during the preparation process. Additionally, it includes post-laboratory questions to encourage reflection on the experiment's objectives and outcomes.

Uploaded by

kaomg76
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
6 views

Lab note

The document outlines the procedure for preparing and sterilizing agar media for microbial culture, detailing the necessary materials and step-by-step instructions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining sterility and avoiding common mistakes during the preparation process. Additionally, it includes post-laboratory questions to encourage reflection on the experiment's objectives and outcomes.

Uploaded by

kaomg76
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

Laboratory Notes

Date:

Group Members:

Professor:

Laboratory Exercise 1: Preparation of Agar Media

Objective: To prepare and sterilize agar media for microbial culture, ensuring proper consistency and
sterility for bacterial and fungal growth.

Materials Needed:

 Nutrient agar powder (or Mr. Gulaman & Knorr cubes)


 Distilled water
 Conical flask or media bottle
 Magnetic stirrer or glass rod
 Hot plate or Bunsen burner
 Petri dishes
 Personal protective equipment (PPE: lab coat, gloves, mask, safety goggles)

Procedure:
A. Preparation of Agar Mixture

1. Mixing:
o Pour the hot water into a flask or media bottle.
o Add 1 Knorr cube
o Gradually add the agar powder while stirring to prevent clumping.
2. Heating the Agar Solution:
o Place the flask or baker on a hot plate and heat gently while stirring continuously.
o Bring the solution to a near-boil until the agar is fully dissolved (approximately 10-15
minutes).
o Avoid boiling over by adjusting heat as needed.

B. Sterilization Process

1. Cooling the Media:


o Allow the agar to cool to approximately 45-50°C before pouring.
o Avoid excessive cooling, which may cause premature solidification.

Rueda Street, Calbayog City


063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710

[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph
C. Pouring and Solidification

1. Aseptic Pouring of Agar Plates:


o In a sterile laminar flow hood (or near a flame), pour the molten agar into sterile Petri
dishes.
o Fill each plate with approximately 20 mL of agar.
o Swirl gently to ensure even distribution.
o Allow plates to solidify at room temperature with lids slightly ajar to prevent
condensation buildup.
2. Storage of Agar Plates:
o Once solidified, invert plates (agar side up) to prevent moisture contamination.
o Store in a refrigerator at 4°C if not used immediately.

D. Common Mistakes and Best Practices

Mistakes to Avoid:

 Overheating agar, leading to breakdown of nutrients.


 Pouring plates at too high a temperature, killing microbes upon inoculation.
 Allowing contamination by working outside sterile conditions.
 Using expired or improperly stored agar powder.

Best Practices:

 Always sterilize glassware and tools before use.


 Work near a flame or in a laminar flow hood to reduce airborne contamination.
 Store prepared plates properly to maintain sterility.
 Label plates with date and type of agar used.

E. Post-Laboratory Questions

1. Why is it necessary to sterilize agar before use?

2. What is the ideal pouring temperature for agar media, and why?

Rueda Street, Calbayog City


063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710

[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph
3. How can contamination be prevented during the preparation and pouring process?

4. Why should agar plates be stored upside down after solidification?

5. Conclusion:
 Summarize the key findings and what you learned from the lab. Discuss whether the objectives
were met.

Rueda Street, Calbayog City


063 055 5339857
Samar, Philippines 6710

[email protected] www.nwssu.edu.ph

You might also like