ENVIRONMENTAL AND POLLUTION MICROBIOLOGY PROBLEM SET 

 1. Construct balanced equation for the degradation of toluene to carbon dioxide under iron reducing conditions (Fe+3 —> Fe+2). You do not need to consider the production of cells.

2. Compare the aerobic oxidation of glucose (C6H12O6) to CO2 and H2O with the aerobic oxidation of a comparable 6 carbon alkane, hexane (C6H14) to CO2 and H2O. Construct balanced reaction for each of these cases. What is the difference in oxygen required? Can you explain why there is a difference?