Mineral sulfide-oxidizing acidophilic

Minerals, in the body, 36 24 Mineral sulfide-oxidizing acidophilic bacteria, 36 106-123... 

Also present in certain environments are acidophilic microorganisms whose normal metabolic processes result in the oxidation and solubilization of minerals, usually metal sulfides. This process is responsible for acid runoff from disused mines, spoilage tips, and ore bodies. Such acid runoff may contain substantial amounts of metal ions such as Cu(II), which have been solubilized or leached out by the action of the acid. Indeed, it is probable that Roman and earlier Mediterranean civilizations obtained copper from this copper-rich acid runoff. 

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