What term describes spherical bacteria that grow in pairs, such as those causing pneumonia?

The term that describes spherical bacteria that grow in pairs is "diplococci." This term specifically refers to bacteria that are spherical in shape (cocci) and are arranged in pairs (di- meaning two). This arrangement is commonly observed in certain types of bacteria, including the ones that can cause pneumonia, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Understanding the terminology and classification of bacteria is crucial in the field of microbiology, especially for cosmetologists who need to be aware of how infections can occur and be transmitted. The ability to identify bacteria based on their shape and arrangement helps in understanding their behavior and the types of infections they can cause.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different arrangements or shapes of bacteria. Streptococci describes chains of cocci, bacilli refers to rod-shaped bacteria, and cocci simply indicates spherical bacteria without specific information about their arrangement. Hence, recognizing "diplococci" as the correct term is vital for comprehending bacterial classification and the related health implications.