Enzymes and Energy

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

A biological catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy.

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The specific region on an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction.

Front

What is a noncompetitive inhibitor?

Back

A substance that reduces the activity of an enzyme by binding to a site other than the active site, changing the enzyme's shape.

Front

How do enzymes speed up chemical reactions?

Back

By straining bonds in the substrate, orienting reacting molecules, and providing a favorable environment.

Front

What is competitive inhibition?

Back

A type of enzyme inhibition where a substance competes with the substrate for binding to the active site.

Front

What happens to enzyme activity at low temperatures?

Back

Enzyme activity declines due to decreased kinetic motion of molecules.

Front

What is the effect of pH on enzyme activity?

Back

Extreme pH levels can distort the active site and affect enzyme function.

Front

What is activation energy?

Back

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Front

What is an allosteric site?

Back

A site on an enzyme where a molecule can bind, causing a change in the enzyme's shape and activity.

Front

How can competitive inhibition be overcome?

Back

By increasing the concentration of the substrate.