Media Sterilization and Stoichiometry

### **Step-by-Step Solution & Mathematical Derivation (GATE BT 2019 Q.33)** **1. Governing Concept & Definition**: - **Topic**: Bioprocess Stoichiometry & Degree of Reductance ($\gamma$) - The degree of reduction of an organic compound $\text{C}_c\text{H}_h\text{O}_o\text{N}_n$ per carbon atom relative to standard reference states ($C = +4, H = +1, O = -2, N = -3$) is: $\gamma = \frac{4c + h - 2o}{c}$ **2. Detailed Step-by-Step Calculation**: - **Given Compound**: Acetic acid ($\text{C}_2\text{H}_4\text{O}_2$): - $c = 2$ - $h = 4$ - $o = 2$ - **Available Electrons**: $\text{Total } e^- = 4(2) + 1(4) - 2(2) = 8 + 4 - 4 = 8$ - **Degree of Reduction per carbon atom**: $\gamma = \frac{8}{2} = 4$ **3. Final Answer**: - **Calculated Value**: **4** - **Official GATE Accepted Range**: **4 to 4**