Question

The Monod equation describes the relationship between

• A. Substrate concentration and product formation rate
• B. Specific growth rate and substrate concentration
• C. Biomass concentration and time
• D. Product formation rate and biomass concentration

Hint:

• Monod Equation: \( \mu = \mu_{max} \frac{S}{K_s + S} \).
• \(\mu\): Specific growth rate.
• \(\mu_{max}\): Maximum specific growth rate.
• \(S\): Limiting substrate concentration.
• \(K_s\): Half-saturation constant (substrate concentration at \(\mu = \mu_{max}/2\)).
• Describes how growth rate depends on a single limiting nutrient.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Monod equation is a fundamental concept in biotechnology used to describe the relationship between the specific growth rate of microorganisms and the substrate concentration. The equation is expressed as:

μ = μ_max (S / (K_s + S))

Where:

• μ is the specific growth rate of the organism.
• μ_max is the maximum specific growth rate achieved under ideal conditions.
• S is the substrate concentration.
• K_s is the half-saturation constant, which is the substrate concentration at which the growth rate is half of μ_max.

This equation helps in understanding how the substrate concentration affects the growth rate of microorganisms. As substrate concentration increases, the growth rate also increases, but it will eventually approach a maximum value (μ_max) as substrate becomes abundant.

Thus, the Monod equation specifically describes the relationship between specific growth rate and substrate concentration, making the correct answer: Specific growth rate and substrate concentration.