Question

37) Which group of organisms is thought to be responsible for the corrosion of submerged metal structures and oil pipelines?

A) fermentative microorganisms
B) acidophilic iron-oxidizers
C) sulfate reducers
D) hydrocarbon-degrading anaerobes

Answer 1

The group of organisms responsible for the corrosion of submerged metal structures and oil pipelines is sulfate reducers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The group of organisms thought to be responsible for the corrosion of submerged metal structures and oil pipelines is C) sulfate reducers.

Sulfate-reducing bacteria and Archaea are anaerobic microorganisms that reduce sulfate to hydrogen sulfide, regenerating NAD+ from NADH. These organisms are commonly found in environments where there is a high concentration of sulfate, such as in marine sediments, oil reservoirs, and sewage treatment plants. They have the ability to produce hydrogen sulfide, which can cause corrosion of metal structures and pipelines.