2.5 Enzymes Flashcards
What is an enzyme?
A biological catalyst that lowers the energy needed for a chemical reaction.
What type of proteins are enzymes?
globular proteins
Why are enzymes usually immobilised?
allows: concentration to be higher to be reused become resistant to denaturation products are not contaminated catalyst can be controlled
How do you get lactose free milk?
add lactase
What are advantages to lactose free milk? q
Lactose intolerant people can have it
sweeter so no need to add sugar
smoother ice cream, lactose is crystallised
glucose and galactose ferment faster - quicker yogurt and cheese.
What factors affect enzyme activity?
Temperature, pH, concentration of substrate
How does temperature affect enzyme activity?
enzyme activity increases when temperature goes up, however when reaches a really high temperature it denatures.
How does pH affect enzyme activity?
enzyme activity reduces when pH reduces or increase from optimum pH. optimum is 7.
How does substrate concentration affect enzyme activity?
enzyme activity increases when concentration increases - more collisions.