AP Biology Unit 3 Enzymes

Front

What is an enzyme?

Back

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

Front

What is the active site of an enzyme?

Back

The specific region on an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction.

Front

What is a noncompetitive inhibitor?

Back

A substance that reduces the activity of an enzyme by binding to a site other than the active site, changing the enzyme's shape.

Front

How do competitive inhibitors affect enzyme activity?

Back

They compete with the substrate for binding to the active site, potentially decreasing the reaction rate.

Front

What is denaturation in the context of enzymes?

Back

The process in which an enzyme loses its functional shape due to factors like temperature or pH, leading to a loss of activity.

Front

What is the role of temperature in enzyme activity?

Back

Temperature affects the kinetic energy of molecules; optimal temperatures increase reaction rates, while extreme temperatures can denature enzymes.

Front

What is the significance of pH for enzyme function?

Back

Each enzyme has an optimal pH range; deviations can lead to decreased activity or denaturation.

Front

What does 'delta G' represent in a chemical reaction?

Back

The change in free energy; it indicates the spontaneity of a reaction.

Front

Can enzymes change the delta G of a reaction?

Back

No, enzymes do not change the delta G; they only lower the activation energy.

Front

What is an exergonic reaction?

Back

A reaction that releases energy, resulting in a negative delta G.