Let me share with you a comparison between Log and lag phase of bacterial growth
| Aspect | Lag Phase | Log Phase |
| Introduction | It is phase of no growth and bacterial cells are adjusting to the environment. | It is phase of rapid growth. |
| Growth rate | Minimal or no increase in the number of viable cells | Exponential rate |
| Cell Activity | Cells are metabolically active but may not be dividing rapidly. | Cells are highly metabolically active and the rate of cell division exceeds the rate of cell death. |
| Duration | Variable and depends on factors such as the initial inoculum size, the health of the cells and the environmental conditions. | Relatively short compared to other phases of the growth curve. |
| Cell Size | Cells may increase in size as they prepare for division. | Cell size remains relatively constant during rapid division. |
| Enzyme Production | Increased production of enzymes required for the utilization of specific nutrients. | High production of enzymes involved in cellular processes and nutrient metabolism. |
| Physiological Changes | Cells undergo physiological changes to adapt to the new environment, synthesize essential molecules, and prepare for rapid growth. | Cells maintain high metabolic activity, undergo DNA replication and prepare for cell division. |