Enzymes (Parts Of The Specification Missed)

Question 1

What is a buffer and why is a buffer important?

Answer 1

• A buffer is a solution that can resist pH change upon the addition of an acidic or basic components.
• the importance of buffers for maintaining a constant pH and the requirement for adequate controls

Question 2

How do environmental conditions such as temperature and pH change the active site?

Answer 2

Environmental conditions such as temperature and pH change the three dimensional structure of enzyme molecules. Bonds are broken and hence the configuration of the active site is altered.

Question 3

How do small changes effect enzyme structure?

Answer 3

Small changes in pH cause small reversible changes in enzyme structure, causing inactivation.