Which of the following is true for reductive dechlorination?
(A) It is also called dehalorespiration. (B) It is an aerobic process. (C) Hydrogen can be used as an alternate electron acceptor. (D) Halogenated organic compounds function as electron acceptor. (E) It is an environmentally insignificant process.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is B

Reductive dechlorination refers to the process where chlorine atoms in halogenated organic compounds are removed and replaced with hydrogen atoms under anaerobic conditions. It is a critical bioremediation process for detoxifying hazardous chlorinated organic compounds.
1. (A) It is also called dehalorespiration: This is true. Reductive dechlorination is also referred to as dehalorespiration, a process used by certain bacteria where halogenated compounds act as electron acceptors.
2. (B) It is an aerobic process: This is false. Reductive dechlorination typically occurs under anaerobic conditions, as oxygen inhibits the process.
3. (C) Hydrogen can be used as an alternate electron acceptor: This is false. Hydrogen acts as an electron donor, not an acceptor, in this process. The actual electron acceptors are the halogenated compounds.
4. (D) Halogenated organic compounds function as electron acceptor: This is true. In dehalorespiration, halogenated organics serve as the terminal electron acceptors.
5. (E) It is an environmentally insignificant process: This is false. Reductive dechlorination is a crucial environmental process, aiding in the breakdown of persistent organic pollutants.
Information Booster: 1. Definition of Reductive Dechlorination:
· A microbial process where halogenated organic compounds are reduced by bacteria in anaerobic conditions.
2. Significance in Bioremediation:
· Used for detoxifying pollutants like trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE).
3. Hydrogen’s Role:
· Serves as the electron donor, facilitating the transfer of electrons to the halogenated compounds.
4. Electron Acceptors in Dechlorination:
· Halogenated compounds (like chloroform) act as terminal electron acceptors.
5. Environmental Relevance:
· Plays a vital role in cleaning up contaminated groundwater and soil.