Approximation of circle number π by spread-plating Escherichia coli

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Statistics
• Science Education

Background:

• Microbial spread plating is a fundamental microbiological technique.
• Ideal spread plating results in random colony distribution, analogous to a Monte Carlo simulation.
• Random distribution allows for probabilistic calculations, including the approximation of mathematical constants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the probabilistic nature of microbial spread plating.
• To approximate the mathematical constant pi (π) using a microbiology laboratory technique.
• To enhance undergraduate students' practical skills and engagement in spread plating.

Main Methods:

• Undergraduate students performed microbial spread plating as part of a laboratory course.
• Colony counts were used to probabilistically approximate the value of pi (π).
• The accuracy of the pi approximation was correlated with the quality of the spread plating technique.

Main Results:

• The experiment successfully approximated the value of pi (π) using microbial colonies.
• A correlation was observed between the randomness of colony distribution and the accuracy of the pi approximation.
• Students showed increased interest in refining their spread plating technique.

Conclusions:

• Microbial spread plating can serve as an engaging and practical method for teaching probability and statistics.
• The technique provides a tangible link between fundamental microbiology practices and mathematical principles.
• This approach can motivate students to achieve superior aseptic techniques for more accurate scientific outcomes.