Question

The Theoretical yield is higher than the observed yield.

(a) True

(b) False

This question was addressed to me during an online exam.

My query is from Production Kinetics in Cell Culture topic in section Homogenous Reactions of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) True

In bioprocess engineering, the theoretical yield refers to the maximum possible amount of product that could be produced from a given amount of substrate, assuming complete conversion with no losses or inefficiencies. This value is often calculated based on ideal conditions, where all of the substrate is used for product formation, and no side reactions or energy losses occur.

The observed yield, on the other hand, is the actual amount of product produced under real-world conditions, which takes into account inefficiencies, incomplete substrate utilization, by-products, and other factors such as heat, pH, or oxygen limitations that might affect the process.

Since the theoretical yield assumes ideal conditions, it is typically higher than the observed yield, where practical limitations come into play.

Therefore, True is the correct answer.