Microbial fuel cells are considered a source of sustainable energy. Why ? 1. They use living organisms ass catalysts to generate electricity from certain substrates. 2. They use a variety of inorganic materials as substrates. 3. They can be installed in waste water treatment plants to cleanse water and produce electricity. Which of the statements given above is/ are correct ?

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are bioelectrochemical systems that utilize electroactive microorganisms, such as bacteria, as biocatalysts to oxidize substrates and generate electricity [1]. While organic matter like glucose or acetate is the most common substrate, MFCs are highly versatile and can also oxidize various inorganic pollutants (e.g., sulfides or ammonia) present in wastewater. This dual capability allows MFCs to be integrated into wastewater treatment plants, where they simultaneously cleanse water by breaking down pollutants and recover energy in the form of electricity [1]. By converting chemical energy directly into electrical energy at ambient temperatures, MFCs offer a sustainable, carbon-neutral alternative to conventional power generation and waste management [1]. Consequently, all three statements regarding their use of living catalysts, inorganic/organic substrates, and wastewater treatment applications are correct.

Sources

1. [1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10672772/