Enzymes and Their Functions

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

A protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions in biological systems.

Front

What is the primary function of enzymes?

Back

To speed up chemical reactions.

Front

What is enzyme inhibition?

Back

A process where the activity of an enzyme is decreased or stopped.

Front

What is the result of enzyme inhibition?

Back

Decreased enzyme activity.

Front

What does lowering activation energy mean for a reaction?

Back

The reaction will occur more quickly.

Front

What is the optimal pH range for many enzymes?

Back

5 to 7.

Front

What is a substrate?

Back

The reactant molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The specific region where the substrate binds to the enzyme.

Front

What happens to enzymes at extreme pH levels?

Back

They can become denatured and lose their function.

Front

What is a coenzyme?

Back

A non-protein molecule that assists enzymes in catalyzing reactions.