Question

How many molecules of Lactic acid will be produced during fermentation process of lactose by a pure strain of lactic acid bacteria?

• A. Two
• B. Four
• C. Six
• D. One

Hint:

Lactose fermentation: produces 4 lactic acid molecules.
Hydrolysis of lactose to glucose + galactose.
Each hexose produces 2 lactic acid.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lactose fermentation produces lactic acid.
The stoichiometry determines the number of molecules.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Lactose + H\(_2\)O \(\rightarrow\) 4 Lactic acid.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Lactose (C\(_{12}\)H\(_{22}\)O\(_{11}\)) is hydrolyzed to glucose and galactose.
Each hexose produces 2 lactic acid molecules.
Thus, one lactose molecule produces 4 lactic acid molecules.
Therefore, the number is four.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Four molecules of lactic acid are produced.
Hence, the correct option is (B). \bigskip