Enzymes and Their Function

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary role of enzymes in chemical reactions?

  • To catalyze (speed up) reactions (correct)
  • To get consumed in the reaction
  • To slow down reactions
  • To change the reaction products

Enzymes can change shape and still function properly.

False (B)

What happens to an enzyme at its optimum temperature?

The reaction works as fast as possible.

An enzyme's ability to catalyze a reaction is dependent on its ______.

<p>active site</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their definitions:

<p>amylase = An enzyme that speeds up the breakdown of starch into sugar denatured = A change in the structure of a protein that prevents it from functioning properly catalyze = To speed up a chemical reaction active site = The specific region on an enzyme where a substrate binds</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Enzyme

A protein that speeds up chemical reactions in living organisms.

Active site

The part of an enzyme where the reaction happens.

Lock and Key Theory

The idea that enzymes and substrates fit together like a lock and key.

Denaturation

Changing an enzyme's shape so it stops working.

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Optimum Temperature

The temperature at which an enzyme's action is fastest.

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Study Notes

Enzymes

  • Enzymes are large proteins that catalyse reactions, speeding them up.
  • Enzymes remain unchanged after a reaction.
  • The lock and key theory explains how enzymes work simply.

Lock and Key Theory

  • Enzymes have a specific active site shape.
  • The substrate (reactant) fits into the active site like a key in a lock.
  • The enzyme can only catalyse specific reactions due to active site shape.
  • The enzyme breaks down or joins molecules at the active site.
  • The products leave the active site; the active site then accepts another substrate.

Enzyme Denaturation

  • Extreme pH or high temperatures can change the enzyme's active site shape.
  • This shape change prevents the substrate from fitting into the active site.
  • Denaturation stops the enzyme from working.
  • The substrate no longer fits in the active site, halting the reaction.
  • A denatured enzyme can no longer catalyse the reaction.

Effect of Temperature on Enzymes

  • Reaction rate increases as temperature increases.
  • Molecules move faster and collide more frequently.
  • Optimum temperature is where the reaction rate is fastest.
  • When temperature reaches beyond optimum levels, reaction rate reduces.
  • Extremely high temperatures disrupt enzyme shape, causing denaturation.

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