Theoretically let's say that both Thermoproteus and T. denitrificans can grow aerobically, using oxygen as a final electron acceptor, while continuing to use H2 and H2SO3 as their electron donors, respectively. Would either organism make as much energy as a glucose-oxidizing, oxygen-reducing bacterium? why or why not?
Sorry this is late in coming, Nadeshiko.
When is oxygen the terminal electron acceptor? At the end of the ETC, which occurs after what cycle?
When is oxygen the terminal electron acceptor? At the end of the ETC, which occurs after what cycle?
Whether they use H2 or H2SO3 to get everything started doesn't matter What matters is which method the bacterium uses to extract energy into a usable form (ATP). Since the ETC is utilized to reduce oxygen, which glycolysis can be performed without, it stands to reason that the Krebs cycle is active during this metabolic process, the same between the hydrogen gas and sulfurous acid users and the glucose oxidizers.
Their energy output should be the same.
I am fairly certain this is correct, though I could find no confirming reference in my books.