Enzymes + Metabolism

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

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 specific region on an enzyme where the substrate binds and the reaction occurs.

Front

What is competitive inhibition?

Back

A type of enzyme inhibition where a molecule similar to the substrate competes for binding at the active site.

Front

What is the induced fit model?

Back

A model that describes how an enzyme changes shape to better fit the substrate once it binds.

Front

What factors affect enzyme activity?

Back

Temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and the presence of inhibitors or activators.

Front

What is the optimal temperature for enzyme activity?

Back

The temperature at which an enzyme exhibits maximum activity.

Front

What is the optimal pH for enzyme activity?

Back

The pH level at which an enzyme functions most effectively.

Front

What is a substrate?

Back

The reactant molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Front

What is an enzyme-substrate complex?

Back

A temporary complex formed when an enzyme binds to its substrate.

Front

What is denaturation in enzymes?

Back

The process in which an enzyme loses its functional shape due to extreme conditions, such as high temperature or extreme pH.