Biofuels: Enzymes

active site

a region on an enzyme that binds to a protein or other substance during a reaction.

Enzymes

Proteins that speed up chemical reactions

Substrate

The reactant on which an enzyme works.

Denature

A change in the shape of a protein (such as an enzyme) that can be caused by changes in temperature or pH (among other things).

pH

measure of acid/base

Temperature

A measure of the average energy of motion of the particles of a substance.

catalyst

substance that speeds up the rate of a chemical reaction

optimal

Best or most favorable related to enzyme reaction rate

lock and key model

enzymes only work with one substrate

reusable

Enzymes are not a reactant or a product - they are able to be used again.

amylase

enzyme that digests starches

glucose

product of the digestion of starch

activation energy

Energy needed to get a reaction started

ethanol

2 carbon molecule used as a fuel additive

Yeast

single celled fungus that primarily use anaerobic respiration when breaking down glucose for ATP