Biology 5.1 Enzymes Flashcards
why do we have enzymes
to speed up reactions in the body without heat.
what are enzymes
large proteins-chains of amino acids. These chains are folded into unique shapes.
what is an active site
a unique shape that fits the subject involved in the reaction.
what is a substrate
the subject of the reaction.
what is the lock and key model
a model showing an enzyme and a substrate, with the substrate fitting perfectly in the enzyme with the enzyme staying exactly the same
what is an induced fit model
a more realistic model of an enzyme where the enzyme changes shape slightly to accommodate the substrate.
what is the optimum temperature
37 degrees celsius
what is it called when an enzyme does not work anymore
denatured
at what temperature do enzymes denature
45 degrees celsius
what is the optimum pH for most enzymes (but not all)
pH 7 (neutral)
give an example of an enzyme that works best at a pH other than 7
Pepsin which is used to break down proteins in the stomach works best at pH 2, suitable for the acidic conditions in the stomache.