Bitesize GCSE Biology - Enzymes

Overview

• Series: Bitesize GCSE Biology - Series 2
• Episode: Organisation of plants and animals - Enzymes
• Host: Dr Alex Lathbridge
• Duration: 10 minutes
• Platform: BBC Sounds

Key Concepts about Enzymes

What are Enzymes?

• Enzymes are biological catalysts.
• They speed up chemical reactions in biological processes.
• Enzymes are crucial for digestion and metabolism.

How Enzymes Work

• Enzymes lower the activation energy needed for reactions.
• They bind to substrates at their active site.
• The enzyme-substrate complex undergoes a reaction to form products.

Enzyme Specificity

• Each enzyme is specific to a particular substrate.
• This specificity is like a "lock and key" model where only the right key (substrate) fits the lock (enzyme).

Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity

• Temperature: Each enzyme has an optimal temperature; too high or too low can denature the enzyme.
• pH Levels: Enzymes have an optimal pH range. Deviations can lead to decreased activity or denaturation.
• Concentration: Both enzyme and substrate concentrations can affect the rate of reaction.

Biological Importance

• Enzymes are vital for processes like respiration, photosynthesis, and the breakdown of food molecules.
• They play a role in building cellular structures and the immune response.

Dr Alex Lathbridge's Approach

• Breaks down complex biological topics into simpler, understandable segments.
• Uses relatable analogies to explain enzyme functions.

Additional Resources

• For more episodes, visit the Programme Website.
• Explore further series on topics like the human circulatory system, non-communicable diseases, and plant tissues.

Listening & Subscription

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