Although generally regarded as hydrophobic, many petroleum hydrocarbons are soluble in water to a limited extent.
[1] Low molecular mass compounds account for much of the toxic nature of hydrocarbon spills.
[2] The WAF is found in greatest concentration in close proximity to the bulk phase of hydrocarbons, the progress of which is often limited by physical containment measures such as booms.
The dissolved components of petroleum mixtures such as crude oil can become subject to the transport mechanisms of the bulk aqueous phase.
[8] Once dissolved, these components are more available to organisms and therefore susceptible to biodegradation processes and experience increased rates of photochemical and chemical degradation.