[Effect of pH and temperature on the kinetics of Fe2+ oxidation by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans].

A correlation has been established between the action of pH and temperature on the activity of Fe2+ oxidation by Thiobacillus ferrooxidans. The rate of Fe2+ oxidation by the bacterium is inhibited at 12 degrees C mainly due to an increase in the pH. Autooxidation of the medium upon hydrolysis of Fe3+ is inhibited at low temperatures. Apparently, the enzymes of Thiobacillus ferrooxidans involved in Fe2+ oxidation are only slightly susceptible to a decrease of temperature to 10--12 degrees C.