ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)Paragraph Comprehension (PC)Easy
Read the following passage: "The process of fermentation is crucial in various industries, from food production to biofuel creation. In simple terms, it involves microorganisms like yeast or bacteria converting carbohydrates—such as sugars or starches—into alcohol, acids, or gases. This conversion occurs in the absence of oxygen, making it an anaerobic process. The specific end products depend on the type of microorganism and the initial carbohydrate source, leading to diverse applications like brewing beer, making bread rise, or producing lactic acid in yogurt." Which of the following is a key characteristic of the fermentation process according to the passage?
- AIt requires a high concentration of oxygen.
- BIt converts proteins into carbohydrates.
- CIt primarily produces water as a byproduct.
- DIt is an anaerobic process.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. It is an anaerobic process.
The passage explicitly states that fermentation 'occurs in the absence of oxygen, making it an anaerobic process,' directly identifying its key characteristic.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The passage states it occurs 'in the absence of oxygen', contradicting this option.
- B. The passage states it converts carbohydrates into other substances, not proteins into carbohydrates.
- C. The passage mentions alcohol, acids, or gases as products, not primarily water.
Fermentation Characteristic
Fermentation is an anaerobic metabolic process where microorganisms convert carbohydrates into alcohol, acids, or gases, occurring without oxygen.
- Microorganisms (yeast/bacteria)
- Converts carbohydrates
- Absence of oxygen (anaerobic)
Memory trick: No air, just sugar, makes the yeast cheer!