Final answer:
The inactive phase cycle of bacteria is known as the stationary phase, during which bacterial growth slows down and the number of cells remains constant. Bacteria in the stationary phase undergo metabolic changes, produce secondary metabolites, and may form endospores.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inactive phase cycle of bacteria is known as the stationary phase. During this phase, bacterial growth slows down and the number of cells remains relatively constant. In the stationary phase, bacteria switch to a survival mode of metabolism, produce secondary metabolites including antibiotics, and some bacteria may undergo sporulation to form endospores. The stationary phase is characterized by a plateau in the number of living bacterial cells, where the rate of cell division and death are roughly equal.