Enzyme Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is an enzyme?
A biological catalyst
What is a biological catalyst?
A molecule that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used itself
What are the main parts of an enzyme reaction?
- Substrate
- Active site
- Products
What is a substrate in relation to an enzyme?
Complementary to the shape of the active site on the enzyme
What do enzyme reactions result in?
The formation of products
What is a synthesis reaction?
The buildup of smaller molecules into bigger molecules
What is a degradation reaction?
The breakdown of bigger molecules into smaller molecules
When does an enzyme work best?
At its optimum
What factors can affect enzyme activity?
- Temperature
- pH
What happens to enzymes when they become denatured?
There is a change of shape of the active site
What happens to enzyme activity when enzymes are boiled?
The activity stops as they have become denatured
