Enzymes

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 a substrate?

Back

The reactant molecule that an enzyme acts upon.

Front

What are products in the context of enzyme reactions?

Back

The molecules that are produced as a result of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction.

Front

What is the enzyme-substrate complex?

Back

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

Front

What factors can 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 functions most efficiently, often around 30°C for many enzymes.

Front

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

Back

Increasing temperature generally increases enzyme activity up to a point, after which the enzyme may denature and lose function.

Front

What is denaturation in enzymes?

Back

The process by which an enzyme loses its three-dimensional structure and, consequently, its activity due to extreme conditions.

Front

What role do enzymes play in metabolic pathways?

Back

Enzymes facilitate and regulate the biochemical reactions that occur in metabolic pathways.