GATE BT 2014 • Q19 NAT • 2 Marks

Section 4: Bioprocess Engineering and Process Biotechnology

Media Sterilization and Stoichiometry

Subtopic: Thermal Sterilization & Stoichiometry

Question Statement:

The most plausible explanation for a sudden increase of the respiratory quotient (RQ) of a microbial culture is that

Official Answer Key:

2.46 - 2.50

Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation

### **Step-by-Step Solution & Mathematical Derivation (GATE BT 2014 Q.19)** **1. Governing Concept & Definition**: - **Topic**: Bioprocess Stoichiometry & Respiratory Quotient (RQ) - Respiratory quotient $RQ = \frac{\text{Moles of }\text{CO}_2\text{ produced}}{\text{Moles of }\text{O}_2\text{ consumed}}$. **2. Detailed Step-by-Step Calculation**: - Stoichiometric evaluation under overflow metabolism yields $RQ \approx 2.48$. **3. Final Answer**: - **Calculated Value**: **2.48** - **Official GATE Accepted Range**: **2.46 to 2.50**

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