Question 1

Food standard: Commercial vinegar is a fermentation-derived product that must contain at least what percentage of acetic acid (w/v)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Product specifications for vinegar ensure consistent acidity and safety. Understanding minimum acetic acid content is important for labeling, culinary use, and process control. Given Data / Assumptions: Question asks for the minimum acetic acid content. Typical table vinegar ranges from 4% to 6% acetic acid depending on region and application. Concept / Approach: Many standards define table vinegar as containing not less than 4% (w/v) acetic acid. Higher strengths (e.g., 6%) are sold but the legal or customary minimum is 4% in common jurisdictions for household vinegar. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the minimum standard used by regulators and industry. Differentiate between minimum and common higher strengths. Select 4% as the correct minimum. Verification / Alternative check: Food codes and pharmacopeial monographs frequently cite ≥4% acetic acid for retail vinegar. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 6%: common but not the minimum. 15% or 25%: not standard for table vinegar and may be hazardous as food vinegar. Common Pitfalls: Confusing prevalent strengths with the regulatory minimum. Final Answer: 4% acetic acid

Question 2

Industrial riboflavin (vitamin B2) biosynthesis: Which Ascomycete fungi are classically used for large-scale riboflavin production?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Riboflavin is an essential vitamin used as a supplement and colorant. Fungal bioprocesses using certain Ascomycetes have long produced riboflavin efficiently via overproduction pathways. Given Data / Assumptions: Candidates include Eremothecium (Eremnothecium) ashbyii and Ashbya gossypii, well-known riboflavin overproducers. We must determine which are employed industrially. Concept / Approach: Ashbya gossypii (teleomorph of Eremothecium) and Eremothecium ashbyii are classic riboflavin producers, selected for deregulated pathways (GTP and ribulose-5-phosphate flux) and strong secretion. Although yeasts can produce B-vitamins, Candida species listed are not the principal industrial riboflavin organisms. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize historical strain usage: A. gossypii and E. ashbyii. Note their taxonomic relationship and overproduction traits. Choose the combined option. Verification / Alternative check: Process literature and patents repeatedly cite these Ascomycetes for vitamin B2 manufacture. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Single entries (a) or (b) are incomplete. Candida guilliermondia: not the standard platform for B2. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking teleomorph–anamorph naming and assuming unrelated yeasts are primary producers. Final Answer: Both (a) and (b)

Question 3

Alcohol measurement — Proof equivalence: 95% (v/v) ethanol corresponds to how many proof degrees (U.S. system)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The “proof” scale is frequently used in distillation and ethanol handling. Converting between % alcohol by volume (ABV) and proof is a straightforward calculation yet commonly tested. Given Data / Assumptions: U.S. proof definition: proof = 2 * ABV. ABV given: 95%. Concept / Approach: Apply the linear relation between ABV and proof for the U.S. system. No temperature correction is required for this conceptual question. Step-by-Step Solution: Let ABV = 95. Compute proof = 2 * 95 = 190. Match to the listed option. Verification / Alternative check: Everclear 95% ethanol is marketed as 190 proof, confirming the conversion. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 110/120/170 proof: inconsistent with the 2 * ABV rule. Common Pitfalls: Confusing U.S. proof with historical U.K. proof (different scale) or using % w/w instead of % v/v. Final Answer: 190 proof

Question 4

ABE fermentation by Clostridium spp.: Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is known as a by-product of which classic Clostridial industrial process?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Clostridial ABE (acetone–butanol–ethanol) fermentation is a hallmark of industrial microbiology. Besides solvents, minor metabolites and vitamins can be formed as by-products that may have analytical or nutritional significance. Given Data / Assumptions: Clostridium spp. drive ABE fermentation. Question targets the process associated with riboflavin by-production. Concept / Approach: Among the listed options, only ABE fermentation is a Clostridial solvent process. Citric acid is produced mainly by Aspergillus niger; streptomycin by Streptomyces griseus; fuel ethanol chiefly by yeasts (though some bacteria can produce ethanol). Riboflavin formation at low levels has been documented in Clostridial cultures during ABE operations, whereas the other processes are not Clostridial and thus unlikely answers. Step-by-Step Solution: Map organism–process pairs: Clostridia → ABE solvents. Recognize vitamin by-products can accompany solventogenesis. Select “acetone butanol.” Verification / Alternative check: Process surveys and compositional analyses of ABE broths report trace B-vitamins including riboflavin. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Citric acid: fungal, not Clostridial. Streptomycin: actinomycete antibiotic. Ethanol: typically yeast-based in industry; not the classic Clostridial platform for B2 mention. Common Pitfalls: Associating riboflavin solely with Ashbya gossypii production and overlooking minor vitamin formation in other fermentations. Final Answer: acetone butanol

Question 5

Antibiotic origins: Bacitracin (a peptide antibiotic with activity similar in outcome to penicillin on cell wall assembly) is produced by which microorganism?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Bacitracin inhibits peptidoglycan synthesis by interfering with bactoprenol recycling, leading to bactericidal effects on Gram-positive bacteria. Knowing its producer supports understanding natural product discovery. Given Data / Assumptions: We must match bacitracin to its natural producer. Options include bacilli, actinomycete, and a mold. Concept / Approach: Bacitracin was first isolated from a Bacillus species; industrial production typically uses Bacillus licheniformis (and sometimes Bacillus subtilis). Other options correspond to unrelated products (e.g., erythromycin from S. erythreus). Step-by-Step Solution: Identify bacitracin as a Bacillus peptide antibiotic. Recall the industrial producer: B. licheniformis. Select the correct organism. Verification / Alternative check: Monographs on peptide antibiotics list B. licheniformis as the standard producer strain. Why Other Options Are Wrong: B. polymyxa: associated with polymyxins, not bacitracin. S. erythreus: erythromycin. Aspergillus fumigatus: filamentous fungus; not a bacitracin source. Common Pitfalls: Mixing up Bacillus-derived peptide antibiotics (polymyxins vs. bacitracin). Final Answer: Bacillus licheniformis

Question 6

History of penicillins: The first penicillin isolated by Alexander Fleming, known as penicillin F, is also called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Early penicillins were differentiated by the acyl side chain attached to the 6-aminopenicillanic acid nucleus. Historical nomenclature (Penicillin F, G, V, etc.) reflects distinct side chains and discovery chronology. Given Data / Assumptions: We must match “penicillin F” to its side chain name. Common penicillins: G (benzyl), V (phenoxymethyl); others (K, F) have different alkyl/alkenyl side chains. Concept / Approach: Penicillin F corresponds to an n-heptyl side chain. In contrast, penicillin G is benzyl penicillin and penicillin V is phenoxymethyl penicillin; 2-pentenyl penicillin aligns with other labeled variants (e.g., K), not F. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall mapping: F → n-heptyl; G → benzyl; V → phenoxymethyl. Eliminate distractors that match G or V. Choose n-heptyl penicillin. Verification / Alternative check: Reference tables of early penicillins list Penicillin F as n-heptyl based on side-chain analysis. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2-Pentenyl: not Penicillin F. Phenoxymethyl: Penicillin V. Benzyl: Penicillin G. Common Pitfalls: Assuming alphabetical letters map to common clinical penicillins only (G or V) and overlooking historic variants. Final Answer: n-heptyl penicillin

Question 7

Amino acid biotechnology — Corynebacterium glutamicum: This industrial workhorse can be engineered or selected to produce which of the following amino acids?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Corynebacterium glutamicum is a premier platform for amino acid production thanks to high flux through central carbon metabolism, robust growth, and genetic tractability. While L-glutamate and L-lysine are classics, many other amino acids are feasible products. Given Data / Assumptions: We consider production possibilities for L-ornithine, L-phenylalanine, and L-glutamine. Question allows for native or engineered pathways. Concept / Approach: C. glutamicum has been engineered to overproduce multiple amino acids: L-ornithine via ornithine cycle deregulation and arginine biosynthesis tweaks; L-phenylalanine via shikimate pathway optimization (aro genes, feedback-resistant DAHP synthase); L-glutamine via coupling glutamate overproduction with glutamine synthetase activity and ammonia assimilation control. Hence, “all of these” reflects current bioprocess capabilities. Step-by-Step Solution: Map each amino acid to a feasible metabolic route in C. glutamicum. Acknowledge historical and modern strain engineering successes. Select the inclusive option. Verification / Alternative check: Biotech literature and patents document strain lines for these products using promoter engineering, transporter tuning, and redox balancing. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Single-amino-acid choices understate the organism’s spectrum. Common Pitfalls: Assuming C. glutamicum is limited to L-glutamate/L-lysine; modern metabolic engineering expands its repertoire. Final Answer: all of these

Question 8

Industrial fermentation — In producing L-glutamic acid via fermentation with Micrococcus (Corynebacterium) glutamicus, why is the medium's biotin concentration considered critically important for both growth and product formation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: L-glutamic acid (a key flavor enhancer and amino acid feedstock) is classically produced by Micrococcus/Corynebacterium glutamicus. Process engineers tune vitamin levels—especially biotin—to control cell membrane physiology and carbon overflow. Understanding how biotin impacts growth versus secretion is essential to reliable high-titer production. Given Data / Assumptions: L-glutamic acid is produced by actively growing cells that secrete glutamate when membrane permeability is altered. Biotin is a growth factor (cofactor for carboxylation reactions) required in small amounts. Extremes of biotin level can either stunt growth or suppress glutamate excretion. Concept / Approach: Biotin limitation modifies fatty acid synthesis and membrane composition, increasing membrane permeability and promoting glutamate efflux. However, if biotin is too scarce, cells fail to grow and product formation collapses. Conversely, excess biotin restores tight membrane control, reducing glutamate secretion even if biomass is adequate. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the role of biotin: essential cofactor in acetyl-CoA/carboxylation steps that affect membrane lipid metabolism.Link moderate biotin limitation to increased membrane permeability → higher glutamate excretion rates.Explain extremes: very low biotin → poor growth → low or no production; very high biotin → robust growth but minimal secretion.Therefore both statements (a) and (b) are true simultaneously in different regimes. Verification / Alternative check: Industrial practice deliberately employs low-biotin media or uses surfactants/biotin antagonists to trigger glutamate overflow while ensuring minimal but sufficient biotin for cell growth. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Only (a): ignores the well-known suppression of glutamate secretion at high biotin. Only (b): ignores growth failure at too-low biotin. None: contradicts established process control strategies. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “more vitamin equals better production.” For glutamate processes, controlled limitation—not abundance—drives secretion, provided growth is not starved. Final Answer: both (a) and (b)

Question 9

Vinegar technology — The rapid microbial oxidation process developed at Schützenbach (Germany) for converting ethanol to acetic acid is commonly referred to as which method?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Acetic acid (vinegar) can be produced by slow surface methods or rapid submerged/packed processes. The historical Schützenbach development introduced a fast generator design that greatly increased oxygen transfer and productivity compared with the traditional Orleans process. Given Data / Assumptions: Ethanol is oxidized to acetic acid by acetic acid bacteria (e.g., Acetobacter/Komagataeibacter). Rapid processes rely on increased aeration and surface area. Schützenbach work is associated with “quick vinegar” generator systems. Concept / Approach: The Schützenbach generator uses a packed bed through which alcoholic feed trickles while air flows counter-currently. The terms “packed generator” and “trickle method” describe the same principle. The Orleans process is a slow, traditional surface fermentation and is not the rapid Schützenbach approach. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize the rapid method: high aeration + large surface (wood shavings/packing).Map historical nomenclature: “packed generator” and “trickle” refer to identical rapid concepts.Exclude Orleans as a slow method. Verification / Alternative check: Process descriptions show feed trickling through packed media while air is supplied; productivity and conversion rates are far higher than surface methods. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Packed generator only or trickle only: each is incomplete by itself; both terms identify the Schützenbach approach. Orleans: slow, surface culture in barrels. Common Pitfalls: Assuming each term describes a different process; in context, they are synonymous for the quick vinegar method. Final Answer: both (a) and (b)

Question 10

Yeast fermentations — Certain Candida production strains require plastic-lined fermenters because they are extremely sensitive to trace contamination of which metal?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: High-performance yeast fermentations (e.g., single-cell protein or specialty bioconversions by Candida spp.) often demand tight control of trace metals. Even microgram-per-liter contamination from vessel walls can inhibit growth or alter product profiles. Given Data / Assumptions: Some Candida strains have stringent metal tolerance ranges. Stainless steel can leach iron and other metals under acidic/aerated conditions. Plastic-lined equipment minimizes leaching. Concept / Approach: Among common trace metals, iron is both essential and potentially inhibitory when present as uncontrolled contaminants. Many Candida industrial strains have well-documented sensitivity to iron carryover; plastic linings (or glass/epoxy coatings) are used to prevent trace iron pickup that can depress growth or shift metabolism. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify metal with greatest likelihood of leaching: iron from steel surfaces.Connect sensitivity of Candida to iron: small increases can inhibit desired pathways.Select iron as the offending contaminant mitigated by plastic lining. Verification / Alternative check: Operational guidelines for sensitive yeasts recommend inert linings or non-metallic contact surfaces specifically to prevent iron exposure. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cobalt/Nickel: may affect enzymes at high levels, but the classic lining rationale points to iron leaching. None: contradicts the stated need for plastic lining. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all stainless steels are chemically inert; under process conditions, trace Fe can dissolve and impact delicate yeasts. Final Answer: traces of iron

Question 11

Antibiotic sourcing — Cycloserine (D-cycloserine) can be isolated from cultures of which Streptomyces species?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: D-Cycloserine is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that inhibits cell wall biosynthesis by targeting alanine racemase and D-Ala-D-Ala ligase. Recognizing its natural producers helps link classic actinomycetes to therapeutic agents. Given Data / Assumptions: Multiple Streptomyces species have been reported as cycloserine producers. Nomenclature in older literature may vary slightly among strains and synonyms. The question offers three species names commonly associated with production claims. Concept / Approach: Historical and patent literature attribute D-cycloserine production to Streptomyces orchidaceus, S. garyphalus, and strains reported as S. lavendulae. Given the multiple attributions, the inclusive answer reflecting the literature is “All of these.” Step-by-Step Solution: Associate cycloserine with several Streptomyces spp. rather than a single exclusive source.Select the inclusive option noting all listed species. Verification / Alternative check: Secondary sources and compendia of antibiotics list more than one Streptomyces as natural sources of cycloserine. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Picking only one species ignores broader sourcing reported historically. Common Pitfalls: Assuming a single canonical producer; many antibiotics were later found in multiple actinomycete taxa. Final Answer: All of these

Question 12

Amino acid fermentation — Which microorganisms have been used industrially to produce L-glutamic acid at scale?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: L-glutamic acid production launched modern amino acid biotechnology. Several Gram-positive, high-GC “coryneform” bacteria and related genera have been exploited because they secrete glutamate under specific physiological conditions (e.g., biotin limitation, surfactant addition). Given Data / Assumptions: Micrococcus (Corynebacterium) glutamicus is the textbook organism. Brevibacterium and Arthrobacter species can also produce glutamate with appropriate triggers. Question asks for all organisms used, not the single most common one. Concept / Approach: Industrial portfolios include multiple genera selected for robustness, substrate range, and secretion behavior. Therefore, the answer is inclusive of all listed microorganisms. Step-by-Step Solution: Map each listed genus to documented glutamate production.Note that the industry commonly moved toward optimized Corynebacterium lines but historically used others as well. Verification / Alternative check: Process reviews and patents cite Brevibacterium aminogenes and Arthrobacter globiformis among capable producers, alongside C. glutamicum. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Choosing a single organism ignores the breadth of industrial practice and literature. Common Pitfalls: Equating “most common” with “only.” Final Answer: all of these

Question 13

Enzymology — “Taka-diastase,” an industrial amylolytic enzyme preparation used to hydrolyze starch, is produced by which microorganism?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Taka-diastase is a classic preparation rich in amylases used for starch liquefaction and saccharification. Recognizing its microbial origin is a staple question in industrial microbiology and food biotechnology. Given Data / Assumptions: The name “taka-diastase” historically refers to enzyme extracts from koji molds. Aspergillus species are leading industrial enzyme producers. We must identify the specific organism associated with taka-diastase. Concept / Approach: Aspergillus oryzae (the koji mold) is famed for producing strong amylases used in sake, soy sauce, and enzyme industries. While A. niger also produces amylases, “taka-diastase” traditionally refers to A. oryzae products. Step-by-Step Solution: Connect taka-diastase to koji fermentations.Identify the koji mold: Aspergillus oryzae.Select A. oryzae as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Historic enzyme manufacturing texts and food fermentation literature consistently tie taka-diastase to A. oryzae. Why Other Options Are Wrong: B. subtilis: industrial proteases, not the namesake of taka-diastase. A. niger: amylases yes, but taka-diastase specifically credits A. oryzae. S. cerevisiae: a yeast; not the amylase source in this context. Common Pitfalls: Assuming any amylase-producing mold equals taka-diastase; terminology is historically specific. Final Answer: A. oryzae

Question 14

Vitamin B12 fermentation — Aerated, submerged bacterial processes for cobalamin production most commonly employ which genera as production strains?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an industrially important cofactor used in foods and pharmaceuticals. Aerated submerged fermentations have historically used specific bacterial producers optimized for cobalamin biosynthesis and corrinoid pathways. Given Data / Assumptions: Propionibacterium spp. (now Cutibacterium for many species) are classic B12 producers under microaerobic/aerobic conditions. Some Pseudomonas spp. also produce cobalamin or corrinoids in submerged culture. Acetobacter are vinegar bacteria and are not standard B12 workhorses. Concept / Approach: Match production organisms to established B12 processes: Propionibacterium and certain Pseudomonas are documented, so the inclusive option is correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the best-known B12 producers in submerged, aerated culture.Select the combination that lists both Propionibacterium and Pseudomonas. Verification / Alternative check: Industrial reviews of cobalamin production consistently highlight propionibacteria and selected pseudomonads. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Only one genus: incomplete relative to known producers. Acetobacter: not a conventional B12 platform. Common Pitfalls: Assuming a single “best” producer; in practice, multiple genera and engineered strains are used depending on process conditions. Final Answer: both (a) and (b)

Question 15

Citric acid biotechnology — The principal microorganism used worldwide for large-scale microbial production of citric acid is:

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Citric acid is among the highest-volume organic acids produced by fermentation. The process relies on microorganisms that channel carbon through the TCA cycle and secrete citrate under specific nutrient constraints (notably low metal availability). Given Data / Assumptions: Several fungi and bacteria can produce organic acids, but productivity and robustness differ. Industrial processes emphasize strain stability and high yields. We must identify the dominant organism in modern citric acid production. Concept / Approach: Aspergillus niger is the global workhorse for citric acid, owing to its high yields, acid tolerance, and ability to thrive on diverse carbohydrate feedstocks. Other organisms listed are not standard for industrial citric acid production. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall which organism dominates commercial citrate fermentations: A. niger.Eliminate distractors not associated with high-volume citrate processes. Verification / Alternative check: Industry histories, FAO/WHO reviews, and patents uniformly cite A. niger as the primary producer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Penicillium notatum: penicillin producer, not citrate workhorse. Rhizopus spp.: can form organic acids (e.g., fumarate), not principal citrate platform. Lactobacillus delbrueckii: lactic acid bacterium. Common Pitfalls: Confusing general “acid-producing” capacity with the dominant industrial choice. Final Answer: Aspergillus niger

Question 16

Invertase (sucrase) used in confectionery to prevent sucrose crystallization is commonly produced industrially by which microorganism?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Invertase (beta-fructofuranosidase) hydrolyzes sucrose into glucose and fructose (invert sugar). In confectionery, invert sugar inhibits crystallization, improves mouthfeel, and retains moisture. The question asks for the organism typically used to produce food-grade invertase at industrial scale. Given Data / Assumptions: Target enzyme: invertase for confectionery applications. Process priorities: food safety, regulatory acceptance, high enzyme yield, and suitable glycosylation/activity profile. Multiple fungi and yeasts can produce invertase. Concept / Approach: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast) is a traditional, food-safe source of invertase used widely in candy centers (e.g., cordials) to liquefy fondants over time. Although certain Aspergillus species can secrete invertase, S. cerevisiae remains the canonical source in confectionery due to established GRAS status, well-characterized enzyme forms (periplasmic and secreted), and historical usage. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify organisms known to produce invertase.Filter by food regulatory acceptance and tradition in confectionery.Select Saccharomyces cerevisiae as the most common industrial source for candies and syrups.Apply enzyme to sucrose solutions/fillings to generate invert sugar and prevent crystallization. Verification / Alternative check: Commercial product labels and manufacturing references often specify “yeast invertase,” aligning with S. cerevisiae origin for confectionery uses. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aspergillus oryzae / A. niger: capable producers, but yeast-derived invertase is the standard in confectionery.Bacillus subtilis: primarily associated with proteases and amylases, not a common source of food-grade invertase. Common Pitfalls: Assuming any invertase source is equally acceptable for confectionery; regulatory and sensory considerations favor yeast sources. Final Answer: Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Question 17

Historically, the first penicillin designated “penicillin F” was initially produced using which mold species in early research and production?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Multiple penicillins were identified in early antibiotic research, including penicillin F, G, and others with different side chains and activity. The earliest laboratory and pre-industrial work used strains distinct from later high-yield industrial mutants. This question probes historical knowledge of which mold produced the first recognized penicillin F. Given Data / Assumptions: “Penicillin F” refers to an early penicillin variant identified before large-scale strain improvement. Early work primarily involved Penicillium notatum; later industrial production shifted to Penicillium chrysogenum (then extensively mutated/selected). Penicillin designations differ by acyl side chain, but the species used historically is the key here. Concept / Approach: Penicillium notatum was the original mold from which penicillin substances were observed and studied in the late 1920s and 1930s. As industrialization progressed, producers moved to Penicillium chrysogenum due to superior yields and amenability to mutation/selection (e.g., Q-176, Q-179). Thus, for “first produced” penicillin F, P. notatum is historically correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the timeline: discovery and early isolation precede industrial strain improvement.Match early penicillin variants (F among them) to the lab species used then.Recognize that industrial high-yield strains (P. chrysogenum) came later.Select Penicillium notatum as the correct early producer. Verification / Alternative check: Historical accounts consistently credit P. notatum with initial penicillin production and observation; later literature documents the shift to P. chrysogenum for yield. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Penicillium chrysogenum: dominant industrial species later, but not the earliest lab source of penicillin F.P. chrysogenum Q-176: a selected mutant from much later industrial programs.None of the above: contradicted by the historical record. Common Pitfalls: Confusing discovery species with later industrial strains; assuming “first produced” means “highest yield.” Final Answer: Penicillium notatum

Question 18

Industrial lactic acid fermentation using corn dextrose medium is commonly carried out by which microorganism?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Lactic acid is a high-volume platform chemical used in food, pharmaceuticals, and as a monomer for polylactic acid plastics. Choice of microorganism depends on substrate (e.g., corn dextrose) and desired optical purity (L- or D-lactic acid). The question targets the organism widely used for fermenting corn dextrose to lactic acid. Given Data / Assumptions: Feedstock: corn dextrose (glucose). Process requires robust, homofermentative lactic acid production. Industrial criteria include tolerance to low pH, high sugar, and osmotic stress. Concept / Approach: Homofermentative Lactobacillus species are preferred for high yields of lactic acid with minimal by-products. Lactobacillus delbrueckii (and certain subspecies such as L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus for dairy) are classic workhorses on dextrose, giving high productivity and optical control depending on the strain. Alternatives like Lactobacillus pentosus utilize pentoses effectively, while Streptococcus lactis is more dairy-oriented for starter cultures. Step-by-Step Solution: Select a homofermentative Lactobacillus suited to glucose.Consider strain performance on corn dextrose in low-pH fed-batch operations.L. delbrueckii meets the industrial criteria and historical usage.Confirm optical purity and downstream purification compatibility. Verification / Alternative check: Process literature and patents frequently cite L. delbrueckii for glucose-based lactic acid fermentations with high titers and yields. Why Other Options Are Wrong: L. bulgaricus: important in yogurt cultures; not the canonical industrial choice for bulk lactic acid from dextrose.L. pentosus: efficient on pentoses, not the default on corn dextrose.Streptococcus lactis: used in dairy starter contexts rather than bulk lactic acid production. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring optical purity needs and assuming all lactic acid bacteria behave similarly on glucose feedstocks. Final Answer: Lactobacillus delbrueckii

Question 19

Microbial carotenoids: Which organism(s) are commonly used for industrial or experimental production of beta-carotene?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Beta-carotene is a carotenoid pigment used as a provitamin A and natural colorant. Several filamentous fungi are known carotenoid producers. The question asks which among the listed organisms are used for beta-carotene production. Given Data / Assumptions: Target product: beta-carotene. Candidate producers include zygomycetes such as Blakeslea trispora and Phycomyces blakesleeanus, and related genera. Industrial relevance and experimental literature are both in scope. Concept / Approach: Blakeslea trispora is widely recognized for industrial-scale carotenoid production using mating of + and − strains to boost titers. Phycomyces blakesleeanus is a classical model for carotenoid biosynthesis and can be leveraged for production. Choanephora (historically “Cnoanephora”) cucurbitarum is another carotenoid-forming fungus reported to synthesize beta-carotene and related pigments, although its industrial prominence is lower than B. trispora. Step-by-Step Solution: List known fungal carotenoid producers.Identify those with documented beta-carotene synthesis.Confirm industrial versus experimental usage; include all valid producers.Conclude that all three listed organisms qualify. Verification / Alternative check: Industrial case studies frequently feature B. trispora; academic literature documents carotenoid biosynthesis in Phycomyces and Choanephora species. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Selecting any single organism ignores the broader set of known producers. Common Pitfalls: Equating “most common industrial producer” with “only producer.” Multiple fungi can synthesize beta-carotene under the right conditions. Final Answer: All of these

Question 20

Among the listed antibiotics, which cephalosporin shows greater activity than penicillin against various Salmonella species?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Cephalosporins are beta-lactam antibiotics with a broader Gram-negative spectrum than many penicillins. This question asks which cephalosporin, among the options, is known to be more active than penicillin against Salmonella species. Given Data / Assumptions: Focus organisms: Salmonella spp. (Gram-negative). Comparison baseline: penicillin activity. Compounds listed include cephalosporin C and N, and Synnematin (not a standard cephalosporin reference for Salmonella therapy). Concept / Approach: Cephalosporin C is a natural cephalosporin with better inherent activity against many Gram-negative rods than classic penicillins. While cephalosporin N is penicillin-like and historically considered closer to a penicillin derivative, cephalosporin C exhibits the broader Gram-negative profile aligning with Salmonella susceptibility compared to early penicillins. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize Salmonella as Gram-negative enteric bacteria.Recall that cephalosporin C shows improved Gram-negative activity over early penicillins.Note that cephalosporin N is less distinct from penicillins in activity spectrum.Select cephalosporin C as the better option against Salmonella. Verification / Alternative check: Historical antimicrobial spectra summaries place cephalosporin C ahead of baseline penicillin against many enteric Gram-negatives in vitro, consistent with the question’s framing. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cephalosporin N: more penicillin-like; not superior to penicillin across Salmonella.Synnematin: not a standard cephalosporin used for Salmonella and not superior to penicillin in this context.Both (a) and (c): includes incorrect elements. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all cephalosporins outperform penicillins on every Gram-negative organism; activity varies by agent and species. Final Answer: Cephalosporin C

Industrially Useful Microbial Processes Questions