Acid mine drainage is caused primarily by the microbial genus
A) Thalassiosira.
B) Leptothrix.
C) Prochlorococcus.
D) Acidithiobacillus.
E) Desulfovibrio.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acid mine drainage is caused primarily by the microbial genus Acidithiobacillus, which oxidizes sulfide minerals in mine tailings, producing sulfuric acid as a byproduct. This acid then leaches metals and other pollutants from the surrounding rock, leading to acidic and contaminated water.

Acid Mine Drainage Is Caused Primarily by the Microbial Genus