Bacteria reproduce by dividing into how many new cells?

Bacteria reproduce through a process called binary fission, where a single bacterial cell divides to form two new cells. This method of asexual reproduction is efficient and allows bacterial populations to grow rapidly under favorable conditions. During binary fission, the bacterium replicates its DNA and then divides into two identical daughter cells, each containing a copy of the original cell's genetic material. This fundamental process is a key aspect of microbial life and contributes significantly to the rapid increase in bacterial numbers.

The other options do not accurately describe the binary fission process; bacteria do not reproduce by creating only one cell, nor do they divide into three or four cells at once through this method. Understanding this reproductive mechanism is essential for grasping how bacteria adapt, spread, and sometimes contribute to health issues, which is particularly relevant in the field of cosmetology when considering hygiene practices.