Final answer:
The mean division time for the bacteria under the given conditions is found by dividing the total time by the number of generations; in this case, 270 minutes divided by 6 generations, which equals 45 minutes per generation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When determining the mean division time for bacteria under given conditions, we are seeking to calculate the average time it takes for a bacterial cell to divide. Given that the same bacteria produce 64 cells in 270 minutes, we can surmise that it went through 6 generations (since 26 = 64). To find the division time, we divide the total time period by the number of generations. Therefore:
Total minutes / Generations = Mean division time
270 minutes / 6 generations = 45 minutes per generation.
This means the mean division time in these conditions for the bacteria is 45 minutes. It's important to remember that this is an average; actual division times can vary based on numerous environmental factors.