Enzymes

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

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

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The specific region on the 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 does lactase do?

Back

Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.

Front

What is a catalyst?

Back

A substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

Front

How do enzymes affect activation energy?

Back

Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction, making it easier for the reaction to occur.

Front

What is the role of temperature in enzyme activity?

Back

Temperature affects enzyme activity; most enzymes have an optimal temperature range for maximum activity.

Front

What happens to enzymes at high temperatures?

Back

High temperatures can denature enzymes, altering their structure and reducing their activity.

Front

What is enzyme specificity?

Back

The concept that each enzyme only catalyzes a specific reaction or acts on a specific substrate.

Front

What is enzyme inhibition?

Back

A process where a molecule binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity.