Cells: enzymes

Question 1

What is an enzyme-substrate complex, and how does it contribute to enzyme function?

Answer 1

An enzyme-substrate complex is formed when an enzyme binds to its specific substrate. This complex allows the enzyme to facilitate the conversion of the substrate into products, enhancing the reaction rate.

Question 2

What are enzymes?

Answer 2

proteins that act as a catalyst and speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to begin. *each enzyme is specific to its substrate

Question 3

What is the structure of an enzyme?

Answer 3

Active Site: where substrate binds and the reaction occurs.
Substrate: reactant the enzyme acts upon
Enzyme-Substrate system: The temporary system formed when an enzyme binds to its substrate

Question 4

What is the lock and key model?

Answer 4

The enzyme’s active site is the twin in shape to the substrate, allowing for an exact fit.

Question 5

What is an induced fit model?

Answer 5

The enzyme undergoes a physical change upon the substrate binding, improving the fit and facilitating the reaction, meaning enzyme is flexible

Question 6

Factors that affect enzyme rate of reaction

Answer 6

1. Temperature; molecules collide more frequently
2. Ph; optimal Ph, too acidic or basic lowers reaction rate
3. Substrate concentrations
   Presence of inhibitors; molecules that stop enzyme activity