Enzymes

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

A biological catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions in living organisms without being consumed in the process.

Front

What is the function of amylase?

Back

Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starch into sugars.

Front

What does 'optimum pH' mean in relation to enzymes?

Back

The pH at which an enzyme's activity is at its highest.

Front

How do temperature changes affect enzyme activity?

Back

Increased temperature generally increases enzyme activity up to a certain point, after which the enzyme may denature and lose function.

Front

What is activation energy?

Back

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Front

How do enzymes affect activation energy?

Back

Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions, making it easier for them to occur.

Front

What factors can affect enzyme activity?

Back

Temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and enzyme concentration.

Front

What happens to enzymes at extreme pH levels?

Back

Enzymes can denature, losing their shape and function.

Front

What is substrate specificity?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of cofactors in enzyme activity?

Back

Cofactors are non-protein molecules that assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions.