Here's how it works:

1. Replication: The bacterium's single circular chromosome duplicates itself.

2. Cell Growth: The cell elongates and the duplicated chromosomes move to opposite ends of the cell.

3. Division: The cell wall and plasma membrane pinch inward, dividing the cell into two identical daughter cells, each containing a complete copy of the original chromosome.

This process is relatively quick, allowing bacteria to multiply rapidly under favorable conditions.