Prepare for the UCF General Microbiology Lab Midterm Exam. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Agar melts at approximately 85°C. This temperature is significant because it allows agar to transition from a solid to a liquid state, making it suitable for preparing culture media for microbial growth. When agar is heated to this temperature, it becomes a clear liquid that can be mixed with nutrients and other components necessary for cultivating bacteria and fungi. Once the agar medium cools down to around 40-45°C, it solidifies again, providing a stable matrix for microbial colonies to grow. Agar's melting point is crucial for practical applications in microbiology, ensuring proper handling and preparation of media.