Principles of Enzyme Action Flashcards
What is the active site of an enzyme?
The part of the enzyme where the substrate binds.
What happens to an enzyme when it is denatured?
Its active site changes shape, so it can no longer bind to the substrate.
How does temperature affect enzyme activity?
Activity increases with temperature until the optimum is reached; beyond that, enzymes denature.
What is the ‘lock and key’ model of enzyme action?
The substrate fits precisely into the enzyme’s active site, like a key in a lock.
What is the effect of pH on enzyme activity?
Each enzyme has an optimum pH; extreme pH levels can denature the enzyme.
How does substrate concentration affect enzyme activity?
Reaction rate increases until all enzymes are saturated.
What type of molecule are enzymes?
Proteins.
Why are enzymes specific to their substrates?
The shape of the active site matches only specific substrates.
What is the optimum temperature for most human enzymes?
Around 37°C.
What is a catalyst?
A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up.
