Factors Influencing Enzymes Activities

Question 1

Temperature

Answer 1

Increases in temperature generally speed up reaction rates until an optimum is reached; beyond that, higher temperatures can denature enzymes, reducing activity.

Question 2

pH Levels

Answer 2

Each enzyme has an optimal pH range. Deviations can alter the enzyme’s structure and active site, reducing its efficiency.

Question 3

Substrate Concentration

Answer 3

Higher substrate levels usually increase the rate of reaction until the enzyme becomes saturated, beyond which the reaction rate plateaus.

Question 4

Enzyme Concentration

Answer 4

An increase in enzyme concentration typically raises the reaction rate, provided substrate concentration is not limiting.

Question 5

Inhibitors

Answer 5

Competitive inhibitors resemble the substrate and bind to the active site, blocking substrate binding.

Non-competitive inhibitors bind to an alternate site, altering enzyme activity regardless of substrate concentration.

Question 6

Cofactors and Coenzymes

Answer 6

Many enzymes require cofactors (inorganic ions) or coenzymes (organic molecules) to be fully active.

Question 7

Environmental Conditions

Answer 7

Other factors such as ionic strength, the presence of activators, and the overall cellular environment can also impact enzyme function.