Enzymes Flashcards
1
Q
What is an enzyme?
A
It is a biological catalyst meaning it speeds up a reaction but does not take part in it
2
Q
How do enzymes work?
A
They work using the Lock and Key model
3
Q
What is the Lock and Key model/theory?
A
A substrate is held in an active site
Only a substrate with a specific shape can ‘fit’ into the active site
The enzyme doesn’t change at the end of a reaction
4
Q
When do enzymes work best? What happens if the temperature is too low/high?
A
Enzymes work best at the optimum temperature
If the temperature is higher/lower than this then the enzyme will catalyse a molecule at a much slower rate
5
Q
What is denaturation?
A
When the temperature gets too high and the enzyme’s active site changes shape and stops working
