Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello, I am a Korean student in Korea. I am using a translator because the technical terms are a little difficult for me. I recently conducted an experiment to grow bacteria through agar medium. However, the badges that were left outside for warm temperatures rained, causing some rainwater to enter. Can germs grow again?

Hi,

Thanks for your question! It is likely that the rain water will affect the bacteria growth on your agar plates. The best practice to prevent this would be to grow your bacteria in a warm environment inside...a lot of bacteria even grow at room temperature (~25 degrees C), it just might take longer.

Hope this helps!
-Brandi