Right option is (c) Number of cells
For explanation: The concentration of cell increases during course of batch culture and the total rate of oxygen uptake is proportional to the no. of cell present. The rate of oxygen consumption per cell also known as oxygen uptake rate (OUR):
Qo = qox
Where: Qo = oxygen uptake rate per volume broth (gL^-1 s^-1)
qo = specific oxygen transfer rate (gg^-1 s^-1).