[51] Fermentation Technology in Industrial Microbiology

Question 1

What is fermentation in the context of industrial microbiology?

Answer 1

A metabolic process that converts sugar to acids, gases or alcohol using microorganisms under anaerobic conditions.

Question 2

How is fermentation technology used in industrial microbiology?

Answer 2

It’s used for the mass production of various products like alcohol, antibiotics, and fermented food.

Question 3

Name some products made using fermentation technology.

Answer 3

• Beer
• Wine
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Antibiotics

Question 4

What is the role of yeast in fermentation?

Answer 4

It converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide through the process of fermentation.

Question 5

What is the role of bacteria in fermentation?

Answer 5

Some bacteria, like lactic acid bacteria, convert sugars into lactic acid through fermentation.

Question 6

What is a bioreactor in the context of fermentation technology?

Answer 6

A vessel in which a chemical process involving organisms or biochemically active substances derived from such organisms is carried out.

Question 7

What is the function of a bioreactor?

Answer 7

It provides the optimal environment for the growth of microorganisms or the activity of enzymes in fermentation processes.

Question 8

What is batch fermentation?

Answer 8

A type of fermentation where all nutrients are added at the beginning and the product is harvested at the end.

Question 9

What is continuous fermentation?

Answer 9

A type of fermentation where nutrients are constantly added and product is constantly harvested.

Question 10

What are the advantages of batch fermentation?

Answer 10

• Easy to manage
• Lower risk of contamination

Question 11

What are the advantages of continuous fermentation?

Answer 11

• High productivity
• Efficient use of equipment

Question 12

What is the purpose of aeration in fermentation processes?

Answer 12

It provides oxygen needed for the respiration and growth of aerobic microorganisms.

Question 13

What is industrial microbiology?

Answer 13

The use of microorganisms for the manufacturing of industrial products.

Question 14

How is temperature controlled in a bioreactor?

Answer 14

By using a cooling jacket or coils, heat exchangers, or by adjusting the rate of aeration.

Question 15

What is the role of pH control in fermentation processes?

Answer 15

It maintains optimal conditions for microbial growth and product formation.

Question 16

How is pH controlled in a bioreactor?

Answer 16

By adding acid or base to the fermentation medium.

Question 17

What is downstream processing in fermentation technology?

Answer 17

The recovery and purification of products from a bioreactor.

Question 18

Why is sterility important in fermentation processes?

Answer 18

It prevents contamination by unwanted microorganisms that could affect product yield and quality.

Question 19

What is a starter culture in fermentation processes?

Answer 19

A preparatory culture that initiates the fermentation process.

Question 20

What is the role of a starter culture in fermentation processes?

Answer 20

It speeds up the fermentation process by immediately establishing a high level of desirable microorganisms.