bio 3A Flashcards
enzymes
1
Q
what is an enzyme
A
an organic molecule that acts as a catalyst to speed up reactions
2
Q
what are features of enzymes
A
- reusable
- specific
- reversible
- speed up reactions
- act on entire biochemical pathways
3
Q
process of how enzymes work
A
enzymes bind to substrates at the active site to form an enzyme-substrate complex. the active site undergoes conformational change (substrate undergoes small conf. change as well) whilst the substrate undergoes chemical reaction and forms a product and leaves the enzyme
4
Q
how is the activation energy affected when an enzyme is used
A
the activation energy required to proceed a chemical reaction decreases
