The table shows the pH ranges that support the growth of different bacteria. Bacteria pH range Salmonella 3.6–9.5 Listeria monocytogenes 4.2–9.6 Escherichia coli 4.3–9.0 What happens to these organisms at a pH of 3.7? A. Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli do not grow. B. Listeria monocytogenes grows. Salmonella and Escherichia coli do not grow. C. Salmonella grows. Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli do not grow. D. Escherichia coli grows. Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella do not grow.

Answer 1

To determine which bacteria can grow at a pH of 3.7, we need to refer to the pH ranges provided for each bacterium:

• Salmonella: 3.6–9.5 (grows at pH 3.7)
• Listeria monocytogenes: 4.2–9.6 (does not grow at pH 3.7)
• Escherichia coli: 4.3–9.0 (does not grow at pH 3.7)

From this information, we can conclude that:

• Salmonella can grow at pH 3.7.
• Listeria monocytogenes cannot grow at pH 3.7.
• Escherichia coli cannot grow at pH 3.7.

Thus, the correct answer is:

C. Salmonella grows. Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli do not grow.