Industrial Microbiology

Question 1

What are the two ways that microbes are used to make industrial products?

Answer 1

Either we want the whole cell, or we want to use the cells as a machine to make something else

Question 2

When do Primary Metabolites grow?

Answer 2

They grow as the cells grow

Question 3

When do Secondary Metabolites grow?

Answer 3

Grow when the cell is in stationary growth phase.

Question 4

What do microbes produce in the health industry?

Answer 4

Antibiotics, Vitamins, Amino Acids, Steroids

Question 5

What do microbes produce in the food industry?

Answer 5

Enzymes, Dairy Products, Wine, Brewing and Distilling, Vinegar, Yeast Cells, Mushrooms

Question 6

What are Antibiotics?

Answer 6

Produced by microbes that kill or inhibit other microbes

Question 7

What microbes are used to ferment wort into beer?

Answer 7

Yeasts

Question 8

Why is Gluconic Acid given to pregnant women?

Answer 8

To slow or stop premature labor or contractions

Question 9

Why is Gluconic Acid used in dishwashers?

Answer 9

Prevents water spots on glassware

Question 10

Describe Bioleaching of Copper Ores

Answer 10

Fe2+ is oxidized to Fe3+ in an oxidation pond. This makes an acidic mixture that is poured over the ore to release Cu2+. The Cu2+ is then mixed with elemental iron from scrap steel to release elemental copper and Fe2+ that is recycled through the system.

Question 11

Describe Tertiary Recovery of Oil?

Answer 11

Steam or heated water is injected at adjacent wells to make oil less viscous and “push” remaining oil to production wells. Xanthan gums are often added to the water to make water more viscous. (Same process as Fracking)