Final answer:
The purpose of using the streak plate method in microbiology is to isolate a single type of bacteria from a mixed culture by spreading the cells over the surface of an agar plate to form distinct colonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of using the streak plate method in microbiology is to isolate a single type of bacteria from a mixed culture. The streak plate method involves spreading the bacterial cells over the surface of an agar plate, causing them to reproduce and form distinct colonies. Each colony represents the descendants of a single bacterial cell, allowing for the creation of a pure culture with only one type of bacteria. This method is important for identification and examination of bacterial strains.