Study Notes
Biotechnology involves using living organisms or their processes for human purposes, such as producing biofuels, food, and medicines.
- Biofuels — Fuels made from living organisms instead of fossil fuels. Example: Ethanol produced by yeast during anaerobic respiration is used as a biofuel.
- Bread Making — The process of using yeast to make bread rise. Example: Yeast respires anaerobically, producing carbon dioxide that makes dough rise.
- Fruit Juice Production — The use of enzymes to extract more juice from fruits. Example: Pectinase breaks down pectin in fruit cell walls, releasing more juice.
- Biological Washing Powders — Detergents containing enzymes to break down stains. Example: Enzymes in washing powders break down proteins and fats at lower temperatures.
- Lactose-Free Milk — Milk treated to remove lactose for lactose-intolerant individuals. Example: Adding lactase enzyme to milk breaks down lactose into simpler sugars.
- Penicillin Production — The large-scale production of the antibiotic penicillin using fermenters. Example: Penicillium mould produces penicillin, which is grown in controlled fermenters.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Biofuels
- Anaerobic respiration
- Pectinase
- Lactase
- Fermenter
Common Confusions
- Confusing biofuels with fossil fuels
- Misunderstanding the role of enzymes in washing powders
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the role of yeast in biofuel production? Yeast respires anaerobically to produce ethanol used as biofuel.
- How does pectinase improve fruit juice production? Pectinase breaks down pectin, releasing more juice from fruit.
- Why is lactose-free milk important? It allows lactose-intolerant individuals to consume milk without discomfort.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of anaerobic respiration in yeast
- The role of enzymes in biotechnology processes
- Conditions required for fermentation in industrial processes