A growth medium is a substance that provides the necessary nutrients for microorganisms, cells, or plants to grow. It can be in liquid or solid form and is often used in laboratories for culturing bacteria, fungi, or animal cells. Common ingredients in growth media include sugars, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, which support cellular functions and reproduction. In microbiology, different types of growth media are tailored for specific organisms. For example, agar is a solidifying agent used in petri dishes, while broth is a liquid medium. The choice of growth medium can significantly affect the growth rate and characteristics of the cultured organisms.