Question

What happens to the value of KLa if aeration is lowered in the fermenter?

(a) Becomes zero

(b) Increases

(c) Becomes constant

(d) Decreases

This question was addressed to me in an interview for internship.

The question is from Aeration and Agitation topic in portion Aeration and Agitation of Fermentation Technology

Answer 1

The correct answer is (b) Increases

Easy explanation: The value of volumetric mass transfer increases most significantly with the increase in air supply or aeration. Higher the availability of oxygen higher is the value of KLa. Although higher flow rate can also cause cell damage due to forces.