Question

The cell mass of E. coli can be chemically represented as \(CH_{1.77}O_{0.49}N_{0.24}\). The degree of reduction for this biomass (based on available electrons) is

• A. 6.50
• B. 2.50
• C. 3.47
• D. 4.07

Hint:

• Formula: \(\gamma = 4C + H - 2O - 3N\)
• Always calculate per C-mole basis

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The degree of reduction (\(\gamma\)) is calculated using: \[ \gamma = 4C + H - 2O - 3N \]

Step 1: Substituting the given values.
\[ \gamma = 4(1) + 1.77 - 2(0.49) - 3(0.24) \]

Step 2: Solving step by step.
\[ = 4 + 1.77 - 0.98 - 0.72 \] \[ = 4.07 \]

Step 3: Selecting the correct answer.
Thus, the degree of reduction is 4.07.