AP Biology Enzymes and Energy

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

A biological catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.

Front

How do enzymes affect activation energy?

Back

Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, increasing the reaction rate.

Front

What is the role of a substrate in enzyme activity?

Back

A substrate is the reactant that an enzyme acts upon to facilitate a chemical reaction.

Front

What is an enzyme inhibitor?

Back

A substance that decreases or stops the activity of an enzyme.

Front

What is the difference between competitive and non-competitive inhibitors?

Back

Competitive inhibitors bind to the active site of the enzyme, while non-competitive inhibitors bind to a different site, altering the enzyme's function.

Front

What is a coenzyme?

Back

A non-protein molecule that assists enzymes in catalyzing reactions, often by carrying chemical groups.

Front

Define catabolic reaction.

Back

A type of reaction that breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy.

Front

Define anabolic reaction.

Back

A type of reaction that builds larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy input.

Front

What is ATP and its role in cellular processes?

Back

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the primary energy carrier in cells, providing energy for various biochemical reactions.

Front

What factors can affect enzyme activity?

Back

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