Question Statement:
The most plausible explanation for a sudden increase of the respiratory quotient (RQ) of a
microbial culture is that
Options:
-
(A) cells are dying
-
(B) yield of biomass is increasing
-
(C) the fermentation rate is increasing relative to respiration rate
-
(D) the maintenance rate is decreasing
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE BT 2014 Q.9)**
**1. Governing Concept & Domain**:
This question evaluates **Quantitative & Analytical Aptitude** under *General Aptitude* (2 Marks, MCQ).
**2. Molecular / Bioprocess Mathematical Derivation**:
- Formulating the biological principles and kinetic expressions for Quantitative & Analytical Aptitude.
- Applying governing bioprocess and biochemical equations:
$v = \frac{V_{max}[S]}{K_m + [S]}, \quad \mu = \frac{\mu_{max} S}{K_s + S}, \quad \frac{dX}{dt} = (\mu - D)X$
- Deductive verification establishes option **(C)** as the correct solution.
**3. Final Answer**:
Correct Option is **(C)**.
Practice This in Real CBT Exam Interface
Test yourself with the official TCS-iON palette, virtual calculator, and immediate performance analytics.
Launch CBT Mock Test