A series of experiments has been performed to investigate the biodegradation of two

pollutants $$ toluene and methane $$ using a biofilter.

Using the information in the Data Section below, answer the following questions.

$($a$)$ Assuming Monod kinetics apply, use the data in Tables B$-1$ and B$-2$ overleaf to

determine the parameters $\backslash$mu max and KM for each pollutant.

$($b$)$ It has been suggested that the pollutants may be affecting cell growth rates at

certain levels. The Haldane model has been proposed as a potential alternative

to the Monod model, and proposed key parameters are presented in Table B$-3$

overleaf.

$($i$)$ For each pollutant, present a graphical comparison of the two models with

the experimental data for varying initial pollutant concentration.

$($ii$)$ What do your results tell you about the suitability of the two models for

describing the biodegradation of toluene?

$($iii$)$ What do your results and the data tell you about the impact of methane as a

substrate for this biofilter?

$($iv$)$ What are the potential weaknesses in this experimental analysis?

Data Section

Monod Kinetic Model:

$\backslash$mu $=$

$\backslash$mu maxS

KM $+$ S

Haldane Kinetic Model:

$\backslash$mu $=$

$\backslash$mu maxS

KH $+$ S $+$ SK$2$i

$\backslash$mu $=$ specific growth rate $[$day$1]$

$\backslash$mu max $=$ maximum specific growth rate $[$day$1]$

S $=$ substrate concentration $[$g m$3]$

KM $=$ Monod constant $[$g m$3]$

KH $=$ Haldane constant $[$g m$3]$

Ki $=$ Haldane inhibition constant $[$g m$3]$