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Explain the 'Induced Fit Model' of enzyme activity.
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The Induced Fit Model suggests the enzyme's active site molds around the substrate, causing a conformational change that facilitates catalysis.
In enzyme reactions, what is meant by the term 'saturation point'?
The saturation point is reached when all enzyme active sites are occupied by substrate, and increasing substrate concentration no longer increases the rate.
What is the primary function of enzymes in biological reactions?
Enzymes act as catalysts to increase the rate of chemical reactions without being consumed.
Why are enzymes referred to as globular proteins?
Enzymes are categorized as globular proteins because they are soluble and have a unique three-dimensional shape required for function.
Describe the difference between catabolic and anabolic reactions in metabolism.
Catabolic reactions break down large molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy, while anabolic reactions build larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy.
Why does substrate concentration affect enzyme activity up to a certain point?
With increasing substrate concentration, enzymes become saturated when all active sites are occupied, causing the reaction rate to plateau.
Describe the concept of enzyme denaturation.
Denaturation is a permanent alteration to an enzyme's shape, often caused by extreme pH or temperature, that inhibits substrate binding.
What factors can cause enzyme denaturation?
Extreme temperatures, pH variability, and certain chemicals can all lead to enzyme denaturation by altering its three-dimensional structure.
How can the rate of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction be measured experimentally?
The rate can be measured by manipulating variables like temperature or substrate concentration and observing changes such as gas pressure.
How does enzyme specificity relate to substrate recognition?
Enzyme specificity is determined by the enzyme's complementary shape to its substrate, ensuring each enzyme only catalyzes specific reactions.
Differentiate between the terms 'fixed time' and 'fixed change' in reaction rate measurement.
'Fixed time' involves measuring reaction change within a set timeframe, while 'fixed change' measures time taken for a specific reaction change.
What defines the optimum temperature for an enzyme?
The optimum temperature is the temperature at which an enzyme achieves its maximum rate of activity.
What role do enzymes play in altering the activation energy of reactions?
Enzymes lower the activation energy, allowing reactions to proceed more quickly without changing the energy levels of reactants or products.
How do enzymes facilitate metabolic reactions crucial for life?
Enzymes enable reactions to occur at life-sustaining speeds and temperatures by lowering activation energy requirements.
How does pH affect enzyme activity?
Each enzyme has an optimum pH at which it functions best; deviations can lead to denaturation or reduced activity.
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