Enzymes, Temperature and pH

Front

What are enzymes?

Back

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.

Front

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

Back

Temperature affects enzyme activity by increasing the reaction rate up to an optimal temperature, after which the rate decreases due to denaturation.

Front

What is the optimal temperature for most human enzymes?

Back

The optimal temperature for most human enzymes is around 37°C.

Front

What happens to enzymes at temperatures above their optimal range?

Back

At temperatures above their optimal range, enzymes can denature, losing their structure and function.

Front

Define denaturation in the context of enzymes.

Back

Denaturation is the process by which an enzyme loses its three-dimensional structure, rendering it inactive.

Front

What is the effect of low temperatures on enzyme activity?

Back

Low temperatures can slow down enzyme activity, reducing the rate of reactions.

Front

What is the relationship between enzyme concentration and reaction rate?

Back

Increasing enzyme concentration generally increases the reaction rate, provided there is enough substrate available.

Front

What is the role of pH in enzyme activity?

Back

pH affects enzyme activity; each enzyme has an optimal pH range where it functions best.

Front

What happens to enzymes in highly acidic or basic environments?

Back

Enzymes can denature in highly acidic or basic environments, leading to loss of function.

Front

What is substrate specificity in enzymes?

Back

Substrate specificity refers to the ability of an enzyme to select and catalyze a specific substrate.