Enzymes: Biological Catalysts Quiz

A substance that speeds up the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

A biological catalyst, typically a protein, that speeds up specific biochemical reactions in living organisms.

The specific molecule that an enzyme acts upon. It binds to the active site of the enzyme.

The region on the enzyme where the substrate binds. It has a unique shape that fits the specific substrate.

Enzymes lower the activation energy of a reaction, making it easier and faster for the reaction to occur.

A model that describes how enzymes bind to their specific substrates. The active site changes shape slightly to accommodate the substrate.

Organic molecules (like vitamins) that assist enzymes in their function. They help enzymes bind to their substrates.

Inorganic ions (like iron) that help enzymes function. They often help with enzyme shape or charge.

The specific pH value at which an enzyme functions most effectively.

The temperature at which an enzyme works best. Human enzymes work best at 37°C (98.6°F).

A process where an enzyme loses its shape and function due to extreme temperature or pH changes. It is like 'melting' the enzyme.

An enzyme with a denatured structure can no longer bind to its substrate, making it inactive.

The rate of enzyme action increases as the concentration of both the enzyme and the substrate increase, but eventually levels off.

When all the substrate is used up, the excess enzyme has nothing to work on, so the reaction rate plateaus.

The reaction rate will initially increase as substrate concentration increases. However, if there aren't enough enzymes to act on the substrate, the rate levels off.

A type of protein.

The active site of an enzyme has a specific shape that fits the substrate like a key in a lock.

The substrate is the molecule the enzyme acts on. The active site is the location on the enzyme where the substrate binds.

Enzymes are sensitive to changes in pH and temperature. These changes can alter their shape, potentially denaturing them and disrupting their function.

A process that breaks down large molecules into smaller ones, often with the help of enzymes.

A process that builds larger molecules from smaller ones, often requiring enzymes.

A specific type of enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides.

A specific type of enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into smaller sugars.

A specific type of enzyme that breaks down lipids (fats) into fatty acids and glycerol.

A molecule that binds to an enzyme and inhibits its activity. It can compete with the substrate for the active site.

A molecule that binds to an enzyme and increases its activity.

The process of turning genes 'on' or 'off' to regulate the production of enzymes.