factors that affect enzyme activity Flashcards
what happens when the shape of the enzyme is changed?
the enzyme is denatured
when do enzymes function best?
they function best at an optimal temperature (body temperature)
when the temperature is too low?
molecules move too slowly and dont form as many enzyme-substrate complexes
when the temperature is too high?
extra heat can cause the active site to change shape and not bind the substrate which results in fewer enzyme-substrate complexes
what pH do they work best in?
enzymes have an optimal pH in which they work best
pepsin
pepsin only works best when it is in a low pH (acidic) environment (ex. in stomach)
trypsin
trypsin works best at a pH of 6 to 8 (ex. in small intestine)
what happens when there are changes in the pH?
it can denature the enzyme