BACE Bioprocessing and Fermentation

Question 1

What is a bioreactor primarily used for in biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

To provide a controlled environment for growing microorganisms or cells to produce biological products

Answer

A bioreactor is a vessel designed to maintain optimal conditions (pH, temperature, oxygen, nutrients) for biological processes such as fermentation or cell culture.

Question 2

What does the term 'sterile technique' mean in the context of bioprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Using methods that prevent contamination of cultures by unwanted microorganisms

Answer

Sterile technique encompasses all practices used to prevent introduction of contaminants into biological cultures during bioprocessing operations.

Question 3

Which parameter is most critical to monitor during aerobic fermentation in a bioreactor?

Accepted Answer

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration

Answer

Dissolved oxygen is critical because aerobic organisms require adequate oxygen for metabolism, and DO depletion can halt growth or shift metabolism.

Question 4

What is the purpose of an autoclave in bioprocessing?

Accepted Answer

To sterilize media, equipment, and waste using steam under pressure

Answer

An autoclave uses saturated steam at 121°C and 15 psi for typically 15–20 minutes to kill all microorganisms including heat-resistant spores.

Question 5

In batch fermentation, when does the 'stationary phase' occur?

Accepted Answer

When nutrient depletion causes the growth rate to equal the death rate, with no net change in cell number

Answer

The stationary phase occurs after exponential growth when nutrients become limiting and the rate of cell growth equals the rate of cell death.

BACE - Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam Practice Test

BACE - Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam Practice Test

BACE Bioprocessing and Fermentation