2.5 Enzymes Flashcards
Define an enzyme
A globular protein which acts as a biological catalyst by speeding up the rate of a reaction
How do we typically name enzymes?
The name of the substrate and the suffix -ase
Where do the substrate(s) bind to the enzyme?
Active site
Describe the lock and key theory
Every active site is the specific shape of the substrate which binds to it and therefore enzymes are generally substrate specific
How do enzymes and substrates usually meet?
They can be found in aqueous solutions moving with Brownian motion
Sometimes they may be fixed (membrane-bound) which localises reactions
Describe the stages of an enzyme substrate interaction
Enzyme + Substrate
Enzyme-Substrate Complex
Enzyme-Product Complex
Enzyme + Product
What can increase collision frequency?
Increased molecular motion
Increase the concentration of particles
When may an enzyme stop working?
If it is denatured
What causes an enzyme to denature?
pH or temperature
What 3 factors can effect rate of enzyme activity?
Temperature
pH
Substrate Concentration
How is lactose free milk produced?
Milk is passed through beads with lactase and thus the lactose reacts out
How does lactose-free milk taste different from lactase milk and why?
It is sweeter due to the sugar being broken down
