Unit 2: Enzymes Flashcards
the part of the enzyme that does all the work
active site
The suffix that means “enzyme”
-zyme or -ase Examples: lysozyme, catalase
the molecules that enter the active site
the substrate
the molecules that exit the active site
the product
What kind of molecules are enzymes?
proteins
What are the functions of enzymes?
to speed up chemical reactions, which means: to build or break molecules
How can enzymes be destroyed?
by heat or acid, which denatures them
How are enzymes similar to inorganic catalysts?
They both speed up chemical reactions (building or breaking molecules)
What is the two word definition of an enzyme?
It is a protein catalyst
How are enzymes different from inorganic catalysts?
Enzymes are bigger molecules. Enzymes are more fragile (can be denatured) Enzymes are more powerful (faster reactions)
What does it mean if an enzyme is denatured?
The enzyme is unraveled. Without its shape, it is just a long chain of amino acids. Since it no longer has an active site, it will no longer function.
What is the “lock” and what is the “key”?
The enzyme is the lock, and the substrate fits into the enzyme like a key into the lock.
The “pocket” in which the enzyme does its work.
the active site
What is the purple molecule?
The enzyme
The green molecules
the products
The lactose
substrate
the place where the orange, red, and blue pieces touch
the active site
What is this picture showing?
How does it happen?
The protein unraveled = denatured
by exposure to heat or acid
Why does enzyme activity drop to nothing at 40oC?
The enzymes have been denatured.
