# Microorganisms are grown in large fermenters to produce useful biological products. Explain why the conditions inside an industrial fermenter must be carefully controlled to maximise the yield of product.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — Topic 8 Use of Biological Resources · Explain · 5 marks

> Industrial fermenters are large vessels used to grow microorganisms such as yeast or bacteria on a large scale. The conditions inside the fermenter are monitored and adjusted continuously during the process.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Temperature must be controlled / kept at an optimum temperature
2. Because enzymes in the microorganism work best / fastest at the optimum temperature (so metabolism / reproduction is maximised)
3. Oxygen / nutrient supply (e.g. glucose) must be maintained / monitored
4. So that the microorganisms can respire / grow and reproduce at the maximum rate
5. pH must be controlled / monitored to keep enzymes working efficiently / prevent enzyme denaturation

## Key terms

- [fermenter](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fermenter)
- [yield](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/yield)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/microorganisms-are-grown-in-large-fermenters-7dc9e119) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.