Enzymes Flashcards
1
Q
What are enzymes?
A
Catalysts produced by living things. They are made up of proteins, which are chains of amino acids, folded into unique shapes.
2
Q
Why do enzymes have specific shapes?
A
So they can catalyse reactions. They only catalyse one type of reaction. This is because the substance has to fit into the enzyme for it to be catalysed.
3
Q
What do enzymes need and why?
A
The right temperature and pH. If the temperature is too high, then the enzyme will become denatured and won’t catalyse. If the pH is wrong, then it interferes with the bonds of the enzyme so it changes shape.
