Question

Gallionella bacteria can get energy from the reaction Fe₂⁺ → Fe₃⁺. This reaction is an example of?

A) oxidation
B) reduction
C) fermentation
D) photophosphorylation
E) the Calvin-Benson cycle

Answer 1

The energy-obtaining reaction of Gallionella bacteria, Fe₂⁺ → Fe₃⁺, is an example of an oxidation reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gallionella bacteria obtain energy from the reaction Fe₂⁺ → Fe₃⁺. This reaction involves the loss of an electron from iron, making it an oxidation reaction. In biochemistry, oxidation is often coupled with reduction in what are known as oxidation-reduction reactions, or redox reactions. The mnemonic 'OIL RIG' (Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain) can help remember this concept.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question, 'Gallionella bacteria can get energy from the reaction Fe₂⁺ → Fe₃⁺. This reaction is an example of what?' is A) oxidation.