The Nature of the Endergonic Processes in Conjugation in Escherichia coli K-12

SUMMARY: The energy required during zygote formation was found to be needed solely by the donor parent. The free energy is utilized by the donor cell in the establishment of effective contacts and subsequently in the transfer of the genetic material to the F- cell. Energy is not required to hold the cells in contact throughout the mating process. The effect of pH value on the recombination rate is described.