Based on your knowledge of hydrocarbon degradation, what factors most likely limited the rate of petroleum degradation after the Exxon Valdez oil spill off the coast of Alaska?
A) salt concentration
B) temperature
C) inorganic nutrient concentrations
D) temperature and inorganic nutrient concentrations

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Temperature and inorganic nutrient concentrations are the two most important factors that affect the rate of hydrocarbon degradation. The cold temperature in the Alaskan waters following the spill slowed down microbial growth and metabolism, which in turn resulted in slower degradation rates. Additionally, the inorganic nutrient concentrations in the water (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) were low, limiting the growth of hydrocarbon-degrading microbes.

Based on Your Knowledge of Hydrocarbon Degradation, What Factors Most