Bacterial Growth Lab

Modeling bacterial growth is important in maximizing the efficiencies of biological processes. Although there are many different methods of modeling bacterial growth, this experiment focuses on the Monod equations. However, in order to use the Monod equations, the maximum growth rate and Monod constant must be found. Here we show how the maximum growth rate and Monod constants can be obtained for Escherichia coli using M9 media in a bioreactor at 37 °C and 500 RPM. The maximum growth rate is also obtained at other settings to show how other factors can affect bacterial growth. The maximum growth rate and Monod constants for E. coli with these settings were found to be ~ 0.0600 hr-1 and ~ 4.2 g/L respectively. With the Monod constant and maximum
Equipment used in experiment. A) Autoclave – If used correctly, this will sterilize the equipment and prevent contamination. B) Biosafety hood – Inoculations should be done here as well as measurements for the benchtop shaker method to prevent contamination. C) Bioreactor – stirs as well as uses a temperature probe and heating/cooling waters to change the temperature. D) Incubator and Shaker Unit – Shakes and heats the flasks to the desired settings.
The equipment needed for this experiment includes a bioreactor unit, a benchtop shaker unit, a spectrophotometer, flasks, graduated cylinders, cuvettes, micropipettes and tips, aluminum foil, and autoclave tape. Figure 2 displays some of these.
Before the experiment began, the lab equipment was cleaned and sterilized. The bioreactor was disassembled and all equipment was rinsed thoroughly. Then, aluminum foil and autoclave tape was used to cover all openings in the equipment. After all the equipment had been cleaned and all the holes were covered, the equipment was
However, if used correctly, the moving parts will not be an issue. Both also use electricity, which could cause problems if there is improper wiring. Also, an autoclave is used for sterilization. Because the autoclave needs high pressures and temperatures to kill the bacteria, it must be used properly to avoid injury.
Ethanol, bleach, and Alconox are used for cleaning and could have negative health effects if used improperly. Ethanol can cause skin or eye irritation and ingestion may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and may affect the brain, liver, blood, and heart. Bleach can cause serious eye damage or irritation and can cause skin corrosion and irritation. Alconox can cause skin or respiratory irritation. In case of accident, rinse the affected areas for at least 15 minutes with water.
Safety goggles, a lab coat, and gloves are required for this experiment to reduce the chances of spilling chemicals on the skin, eyes, or other important body parts. They will also help prevent