How Higher Glucose Concentrations Affect the Production of CO2 in Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)

Abstract

Sugar is a main component when growing Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is used during glycolysis, and sugars, such as sucrose, are essential for this process; however, through various different studies it has been shown that glucose is the most productive sugar that will contribute to the production of carbon dioxide. Ultimately, the goal that we wanted to achieve is maximizing yeast growth, and through our study, this was what we achieved. Glucose being the most effective sugar is known knowledge; therefore, we wanted to know what concentration of glucose will be the best when trying to increase the growth of yeast. The most efficient way we could test this was by studying carbon dioxide emissions from the yeast at different concentrations of glucose, going from the recommended amount, 2%, to the maximum of 5%. When the production of CO2 increases, we believe this positively correlates with yeast growth. However, it was not supported by our data collected that 5% of glucose would be the most effective, but that it was 2% of glucose. It was displayed that when glucose concentration was at 5%, we had the lowest amount of CO2 produced, and it was at 2% that CO2 production was the highest. Through gaining this information, it can be exceedingly useful for industries where yeast is essential, such as for Acme Brewing and Baking. However, it can also be used scientifically to conduct research about human processes and other organisms.