Enzymes

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

An enzyme is a biological catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The active site is the specific region of an enzyme where the substrate binds and the reaction occurs.

Front

What is a substrate?

Back

A substrate is the reactant molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Front

What happens to the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction when substrate concentration increases?

Back

The rate increases and then levels off as the enzyme becomes saturated.

Front

What is denaturation in enzymes?

Back

Denaturation is the process where an enzyme loses its functional shape due to factors like high temperature or extreme pH, rendering it inactive.

Front

What factors affect enzyme activity?

Back

Enzyme activity can be affected by temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and the presence of inhibitors or activators.

Front

What is the optimal temperature for most enzymes?

Back

Most enzymes have an optimal temperature around 37°C (98.6°F), which is the normal body temperature for humans.

Front

What is the optimal pH for enzymes?

Back

Each enzyme has a specific optimal pH range, often around neutral (pH 7), but some work best in acidic or basic conditions.

Front

What is an enzyme inhibitor?

Back

An enzyme inhibitor is a substance that decreases the activity of an enzyme by binding to it and preventing substrate interaction.

Front

What is enzyme specificity?

Back

Enzyme specificity refers to the ability of an enzyme to select and catalyze a specific substrate among many possible candidates.