AP Biology Enzymes

Front

What is an exergonic reaction?

Back

An exergonic reaction is a chemical reaction that proceeds with a net release of free energy.

Front

What does it mean for an enzyme to be specific?

Back

An enzyme is specific when it only catalyzes one particular substrate that fits its active site.

Front

What is the role of allosteric inhibitors in enzyme activity?

Back

Allosteric inhibitors do not block the active site; instead, they bind to a different site on the enzyme, altering its activity.

Front

What are the two possible scenarios for an enzyme that catalyzes two different reactions?

Back

Either the enzyme has two distinct active sites or the reactants involved in the two reactions are very similar in size and shape.

Front

What is the optimum pH for enzyme activity?

Back

The optimum pH is the pH at which an enzyme's activity is greatest, which can vary depending on the enzyme.

Front

What is the difference between competitive and allosteric inhibition?

Back

Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor competes with the substrate for the active site, while allosteric inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to a different site, changing the enzyme's shape.

Front

What is a catalyst?

Back

A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

Front

How do temperature changes affect enzyme activity?

Back

Enzyme activity typically increases with temperature up to a certain point, after which high temperatures can denature the enzyme.

Front

What is the significance of enzyme-substrate complexes?

Back

Enzyme-substrate complexes are formed when an enzyme binds to its substrate, facilitating the conversion of substrates into products.

Front

What is meant by enzyme saturation?

Back

Enzyme saturation occurs when all active sites of an enzyme are occupied by substrates, leading to a maximum reaction rate.