Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Microorganisms are extensively used in industrial and commercial sectors for the production of beverages, antibiotics, chemicals, and food products. Different groups of microbes, such as bacteria, fungi (yeast), and moulds, are utilized based on their specific metabolic properties.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect.
Yeast (specifically Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is primarily used for the commercial production of alcohol, wine, and bread through fermentation. The large-scale production of acetic acid (vinegar) is carried out by bacteria, specifically Acetobacter aceti, which oxidizes alcohol into acetic acid.
- Statement 2 is Correct.
Antibiotics are chemical substances produced by specific microorganisms (such as fungi and bacteria) that kill or retard the growth of disease-causing microbes. For example, Penicillin is produced from the fungus Penicillium notatum, and Streptomycin is derived from bacteria.
- Statement 3 is Correct.
Bacteria play a crucial role in the food industry. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB), such as Lactobacillus, are essential for converting milk into curd and are involved in the ripening and texturing of cheese. Bacteria are also used in the fermentation process for making pickles and other fermented foods.
Key Takeaway
Yeast is the primary agent for ethanol and bakery products, whereas Bacteria (like Acetobacter and Lactobacillus) are responsible for producing organic acids (acetic acid, lactic acid) used in vinegar, cheese, and curd.