Industrial Fermenters

Question 1

Nutrients in funnel:

Answer 1

Nutrients needed by the microorganisms for growth is provided in the liquid culture medium that is mixed in with the microorganisms.

Question 2

pH probe:

Answer 2

pH is monitored and kept at the optimum level for the microorganisms’ enzymes to work efficiently. This keep the rate of reaction and product yield as high as possible.

Question 3

Temperature recorder;

Answer 3

The temperature is monitored and kept at the optimum level.

Question 4

A watercooler jacket:

Answer 4

Makes sure that that it doesn’t get too hot in the fermenter that the enzymes denature.

Question 5

Vessels are sterilized between uses:

Answer 5

This kills unwanted microbes, therefore increasing crop yield as the desired microorganisms do not have to compete with other microbes as well as prevents the contamination of the desired microorganism.

Question 6

Air in funnel:

Answer 6

Some microorganisms need oxygen for respiration. This is pumped in using sterile air. This increases crop yield as oxygen is needed by the microorganisms to respire and grow.

Question 7

Paddles:

Answer 7

To keep microorganisms in contact with fresh medium. This increases crop yield as it means that there is always enough nutrients present for the microorganisms to access.