1. Attachment: The phage attaches to the surface of the host bacterium.
2. Penetration: The phage injects its genetic material (DNA or RNA) into the host cell.
3. Replication: The phage's genetic material takes over the host cell's machinery to produce new phage components (DNA, proteins, etc.).
4. Assembly: New phage particles are assembled from the newly synthesized components.
5. Release: The host cell lyses (bursts), releasing the newly formed phages, which can then infect other cells.
Let me know if you'd like more information about any of these steps!
