Question

In the decomposition of soil of organic matter, what is the meant by alternative electrons acceptors? what are the three common electron acceptor? what conditions lead to alternative electron acceptors?

Answer 1

A compound that receives or accepts an electron during oxidation of carbon source, e.g. during cellular respiration or photosynthesis is terminal electron acceptor. Mostly oxygen acts as the terminal electron acceptor. However, in the absence of oxygen, like anaerobic respiration, molecules such as sulfate (SO42-), nitrate (NO3–), or sulfur (S) are used as electron acceptors.

sulfate (SO42-), nitrate (NO3–), and sulfur (S) are three common electron acceptors.

Anaerobic conditions and high amounts of sulfate, nitrate, or sulfur lead to the use of alternative electron acceptors.

answered by: anonymous