Enzymes Flashcards
What are enzymes?
They are biological catalysts. They are made from proteins and speed up reactions (which is digestion of molecules in this case)
What is the Lock and Key Theory?
It is the theory that every molecule is meant to fit onto another enzyme, like a jigsaw piece. The substrate is the molecule and the part on the enzyme, where the substrate is meant to fit is the active site. Once the substrate has been locked onto the enzyme, it breaks the bonds between the individual molecules of the substrate and releases them.
How do enzymes denature?
Enzymes denature by either a too high or too low temperature or pH. They could also be denatured by a substrate that does not fit the active site.