What is the pH range that allows the growth of most bacteria?

The growth of most bacteria is supported within a specific pH range that is crucial for their metabolic activity. The correct answer indicates that this range is between 4.6 to 7.5. This pH range is significant because it aligns with the acidity levels found in many foods and environments where bacteria thrive, such as meats, dairy products, and vegetables.

At a pH level of 4.6, the environment is still acidic enough to limit the growth of certain pathogenic organisms while allowing a host of spoilage bacteria to flourish. Meanwhile, the upper limit of 7.5 provides an alkaline condition that many bacteria can also tolerate, resulting in a balance where various organisms can grow effectively.

In contrast, other options provide ranges that either extend into too acidic or too alkaline territories, where the majority of bacteria, especially those that are pathogenic, struggle to survive. Options with lower pH ranges would inhibit growth due to increased acidity, while those with higher pH levels often exceed the tolerable conditions for many microorganisms, thus limiting their ability to thrive.