Enzymes Flashcards
What are enzymes?
Large proteins that speed up reactions (catalysts).
What is the active site?
The part of the enzyme where the reaction happens.
What is the lock and key theory?
The substrate fits into the enzyme’s active site like a key in a lock.
What happens at the active site?
Substrate is broken down or joined, and products are released.
What happens to enzymes as temperature increases (up to optimum)?
Rate of reaction increases—more collisions.
What happens above the optimum temperature?
Enzyme is denatured—active site changes shape.
What is the optimum temperature for enzymes?
The temperature where enzymes work fastest.
What does denatured mean?
The active site changes shape and the enzyme no longer works.
What causes enzymes to denature?
Very high temperatures or extreme pH values.
What does amylase do?
Breaks starch into simple sugars.
Where is amylase produced?
Salivary glands, pancreas, small intestine.
What does protease do?
Breaks proteins into amino acids.
Where is protease produced?
Stomach, pancreas, small intestine.
What does lipase do?
Breaks lipids into fatty acids and glycerol.
Where is lipase produced?
Pancreas, small intestine.
Why do enzymes have different optimum pH values?
They work in different parts of the body with different pH.
What is the optimum pH for protease in the stomach?
pH 2 (acidic).
What is the optimum pH for amylase in saliva?
Around pH 7 (neutral).
What key term must be used instead of ‘enzyme is killed’?
Denatured.
Why is the lock and key model useful in other questions?
It helps show how specific enzymes work with specific substrates.
