Glucose fermentation by Clostridium spp. produces ATP only when acetate and butyrate are produced. Why do these organisms produce acetone and butanol after strong initial activity of generating ATP with acetate and butyrate byproducts?
A) Acetate and butyrate accumulation creates a deadly acidic environment, which acetone and butanol do not.
B) Acetate and butyrate are no longer needed for biosynthetic pathways.
C) Acetone and butanol serve as better sources for NAD(P)⁺ reduction.
D) Acetone and butanol production is favored for stability to store intracellular carbon sources for potential nutrient poor conditions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acetate and butyrate accumulation lowers the pH of the environment, creating acidic conditions that can be harmful to the cells. The production of acetone and butanol, which are less acidic, helps to mitigate this issue, allowing the organisms to survive and continue their metabolic processes in a less hostile environment.

Glucose Fermentation by Clostridium Spp