Enzymes

Question 1

What are the 3 characteristics of an enzyme?

Answer 1

1. Speed up chemical rxns
2. Required in minute amounts
3. Specific in action

Question 2

How does an enzyme function?

Answer 2

An enzyme has a specific 3D shape with a depression called an active site. The substances on which the enzyme acts is a substrate.
Only the substrate with a 3D shape complementary to that of the active site can fit into the enzyme. Results in the formation of an enzyme substrate complex.
While the substrate is attached to the active ste, chemical rxns occur. The substrate is converted to its products.
The products leave its active site and the enzyme is unchanged.

Question 3

How are enzymes affected by temperature?

Answer 3

Enzymes are inactive at low temperatures. At low temp, the KE is low. Chances of substrate moleqs colliding with the enzyme is low.
For every 10’C rise in temperature, the rate of enzyme rxn is doubled until optimum is reached. Beyond optimum, enzyme activity decreases until denaturation. At denaturation, the enzyme would have lost its ability to catalyse rxns.

Question 4

How are enzymes affected by pH?

Answer 4

Extreme changes in the acidity or alkalinity of solutions denature enzymes.