Enzymes

Front

What are enzymes?

Back

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

Front

What is the primary function of enzymes?

Back

The primary function of enzymes is to lower the activation energy of a reaction, allowing it to occur more quickly.

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The active site is the specific region on an enzyme where the substrate binds and the reaction occurs.

Front

What is a substrate?

Back

A substrate is the reactant molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Front

What is the significance of temperature for enzyme activity?

Back

Enzymes have an optimal temperature range where they function best; extreme temperatures can denature enzymes, reducing their effectiveness.

Front

What is denaturation in the context of enzymes?

Back

Denaturation is the process where an enzyme loses its three-dimensional structure and, consequently, its functionality due to factors like heat or pH changes.

Front

What suffix do most enzymes have?

Back

Most enzymes end with the suffix '-ase', indicating their function.

Front

What is protease?

Back

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids.

Front

What is lipase?

Back

Lipase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Front

What is carbohydrase?

Back

Carbohydrase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars.