Write notes on each of the following topics - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 14 - 2013
Question 14
Write notes on each of the following topics. You are required to make a minimum of three points concerning each topic. Marks will not be given for word diagrams alon... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write notes on each of the following topics - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 14 - 2013
Step 1
Metabolism.
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Metabolism refers to the sum of all biochemical reactions occurring within a cell or organism. It is divided into two main categories:
Catabolism: This involves the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy in the process. An example includes the breakdown of glucose during cellular respiration.
Anabolism: This is the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy. An example is the synthesis of proteins from amino acids.
Step 2
Krebs Cycle.
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The Krebs Cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, is a crucial metabolic pathway that occurs in the mitochondria. It takes place under aerobic conditions and includes the following steps:
The cycle begins with Acetyl Coenzyme A combining with oxaloacetate to form citrate.
Throughout the cycle, hydrogen ions and energized electrons are produced, which are critical for the electron transport chain.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is released as a by-product during the metabolic processes.
Step 3
ADP.
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Adenosine diphosphate (ADP) is a low-energy molecule that consists of adenosine and two phosphate groups. During cellular processes, ADP can be converted into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a high-energy molecule, by the addition of a phosphate group. The reaction can be summarized as follows:
ightarrow ATP$$
Step 4
Explain the term fermentation.
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Fermentation is a metabolic process that converts sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol in the absence of oxygen. It is utilized by various microorganisms to generate energy anaerobically.
Step 5
Name an organism that is used in industrial fermentation.
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Yeast, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is commonly used in industrial fermentation, especially in the production of alcohol and bread.
Step 6
To which kingdom does this organism belong?
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The organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae belongs to the kingdom Fungi.
Step 7
Name a compound which is used as a carbon source in the fermentation referred to in part (ii).
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A commonly used carbon source in fermentation is glucose, which serves as the starting material for various fermentation processes.
Step 8
Explain the terms bioprocessing and immobilised.
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Bioprocessing involves the use of living cells or their components (like enzymes) to obtain desired products, such as food, pharmaceuticals, or biofuels. This process often utilizes microorganisms or enzymes to perform reactions.
Immobilised refers to the method of fixing or trapping cells or enzymes on inert materials. This technique enhances the efficiency of bioprocessing since it allows for easier separation and reuse of biological catalysts.
Step 9
Give an advantage of using immobilised cells.
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One significant advantage is that immobilised cells can be reused for multiple batches of fermentation, which reduces costs and increases efficiency in industrial processes.
Step 10
Name the compound from which the immobilising beads are formed in the laboratory.
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The compound commonly used for making immobilising beads is alginate, which is derived from brown seaweeds.
Step 11
Give the general name for the vessel used for such reactions.
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The general name for the vessel used in fermentation reactions with immobilised cells is a bioreactor.
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