A microbial culture is being grown in a bioreactor with continuous aeration. The
dissolved oxygen probe provided with the system shows a reading of zero. In this
context, which of the following inferences is/are correct?
Options:
(A) The culture has died due to absence of oxygen
(B) The culture has run out of carbon source
(C) The culture growth becomes oxygen limited
(D) The culture growth is independent of dissolved oxygen
Official Answer Key:
C
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE BT 2026 Q.44)**
**1. Governing Concept & Domain**:
This question evaluates **Bioprocess Engineering** under *Section 4: Bioprocess Engineering & Process Biotechnology* (2 Marks, MCQ).
**2. Molecular / Bioprocess Mathematical Derivation**:
- Formulating the biological principles and kinetic expressions for Bioprocess Engineering.
- 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)**.
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