The biologist of Illustration 15.7-9 is examining other genetically engineered bacteria to produce 2,3- butanediol from lignins, which are derived from abundant and renewable resources such as trees, plants, and agricultural crops. While lignin polymerizes, the repeating unit is believed to have the following general formula: C₁₀H₁₂O₃.

a. Estimate the maximum amount of 2,3-butanediol that can be produced per kg of lignin consumed, assuming no additional biomass production.

b. Estimate the amount of water and oxygen consumed, and carbon dioxide produced per C-mole of 2,3-butanediol produced, assuming no additional biomass production.

c. Estimate the amount of heat released to keep the fermenter at 25°C per C-mole of 2,3-butanediol produced, assuming no additional biomass production.

Illustration 15.7-9

Determining the Maximum Amount of Product That Can Be Obtained from a Substrate A biologist is trying to genetically engineer bacteria to produce valuable organic chemicals from the inexpensive organic sugar xylose found in a variety of plants and berries. One such organism appears capable of producing 2,3-butanediol. The following data are available.

Transcribed Image Text:

Chemical 2,3-butanediol Xylose Formula C4H10O2 C5H10O5 ΔΗ, J/mol 2461.0 2345.2