What is the mechanism by which potassium permanganate works when used to control algae?

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Multiple Choice

What is the mechanism by which potassium permanganate works when used to control algae?

Explanation:
Potassium permanganate mainly works by removing a key nutrient that algae need: iron. In water, iron commonly exists as Fe2+. KMnO4 oxidizes Fe2+ to Fe3+, which then precipitates as ferric hydroxide and settles out. With iron out of the dissolved pool, algae can’t synthesize chlorophyll as effectively, so their growth is slowed or halted. While KMnO4 can also oxidize some algal cells, that direct oxidation isn’t the primary mechanism in this context. It doesn’t meaningfully raise dissolved oxygen, and it doesn’t form chloramines.

Potassium permanganate mainly works by removing a key nutrient that algae need: iron. In water, iron commonly exists as Fe2+. KMnO4 oxidizes Fe2+ to Fe3+, which then precipitates as ferric hydroxide and settles out. With iron out of the dissolved pool, algae can’t synthesize chlorophyll as effectively, so their growth is slowed or halted. While KMnO4 can also oxidize some algal cells, that direct oxidation isn’t the primary mechanism in this context. It doesn’t meaningfully raise dissolved oxygen, and it doesn’t form chloramines.

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