How Does Thiobacillus ferrooxidans Catalyze Reactions?
The catalytic activity of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans is primarily due to its ability to oxidize inorganic substances. This bacterium has several enzyme systems, such as iron-oxidizing enzymes and sulfur-oxidizing enzymes, which facilitate these oxidation reactions. The most notable enzymes are those involved in the oxidation of ferrous iron to ferric iron (Fe3+), which then participates in leaching processes.
