Which of the following is FALSE with respect to the use of sulfate by marine archaeal and bacterial groups?

A) Oxidized sulfur-containing molecules have redox potentials lower than those of the nitrogen series.
B) Oxidized sulfur molecules such as sulfate and sulfite serve as electron acceptors.
C) Sulfate and sulfite can receive electrons from hydrocarbons.
D) Sulfate-reducing archaea and bacteria are widespread in the ocean.
E) Sulfate is more abundant than chloride in the ocean.