Bacterial cells are said to be competent when they
A) contain plasmids containing inserted DNA.
B) are able to uptake DNA from the external medium.
C) can grow on minimal medium.
D) grow rapidly when they contain plasmids.
E) contain plasmids with antibiotic resistance.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Competence in bacteria refers to their ability to take up extracellular DNA from their environment. This is a crucial step in the process of transformation, where bacteria can acquire new genetic traits.

Bacterial Cells Are Said to Be Competent When They