Introduction to enzymes Flashcards
1
Q
Why are enzymes necessary in living cells?
A
To speed up reactions
2
Q
What are enzymes?
A
Globular proteins that act as biological catalysts
3
Q
What is the rate of enzymes dependent on?
A
Temp, pH, pressure, conc of enzyme and/or substrate
4
Q
What is the Vmax?
A
The point that enzymes can increase their rate up to (max initial rate)
5
Q
What are the 2 main types of reactions that enzymes catalyse?
A
Anabolic + catabolic
6
Q
What are anabolic reactions
A
Joining of monomers into polymers
Essential for growth, often require energy
7
Q
What are catabolic reactions?
A
Breakdown of polymers into monomers
Releases energy
8
Q
What is metabolism?
A
Sum of all reactions (anabolic and catabolic) taking place within cell/organism
