1.5 Medical and Industrial Applications of Enzymes Flashcards
1
Q
How do biosensors work?
A
They use specific enzymes so they select one type of molecule from a mixture.
A mixture is passed over the enzyme and a reaction occurs.
The energy released is proportional to the conc. of the substrate and is converted into electrical impulses.
This causes an accurate digital display of concentration to be produced.
2
Q
Give an example of an electrode used in biosensors.
A
Glucose oxidase electrode.
Detects glucose in blood.
3
Q
Why is the enzyme immobilised in biosensors?
A
So its structure is stabilised in an inert support eg on alginate beads or gel membrane
4
Q
Why are enzymes immobilised in industry?
A
They can be recovered for re-use. Therefore, a small amount of enzyme may be used to carry out a large-scale reaction.
