Inorganic arsenic compounds can serve as electron acceptors for anaerobic respiration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Inorganic arsenic compounds such as arsenate (AsO4^-3) can act as electron acceptors for anaerobic respiration in some microorganisms, such as certain strains of bacteria and archaea. The process involves the reduction of arsenate to arsenite (AsO3^-3) which releases energy that can be used by the microorganism for metabolism. However, it should be noted that arsenic is a toxic element and can have harmful effects on human health and the environment.

Inorganic Arsenic Compounds Can Serve as Electron Acceptors for Anaerobic