AP BIO UNIT:3(Cellular Energetics)(UPDATED 10/01/24)

Activation Energy

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur by breaking or contorting chemical bonds.

Higher Activation Rate

A condition where a higher activation energy results in a slower chemical reaction.

Enzyme

A catalyst protein that reduces the energy required for a chemical reaction, allowing the cell to use energy for other processes.

Power in Transition State

The energy used during the transition state of a reaction, which enzymes aim to lower.

Active Site

The specific region on an enzyme where substrates bind to facilitate a chemical reaction.

Substrate

A reactant molecule that binds to the active site of an enzyme to enable a chemical reaction.

Amino Acids in Substrates

The building blocks of substrate proteins, which contain hydrophilic and hydrophobic chains.

Enzyme Regulation

The process by which molecules (inhibitors and activators) can enhance or inhibit enzyme function.

Competitive Inhibitors

Molecules that compete with substrates for binding to the active site of an enzyme.

Non-Competitive Inhibitors

Molecules that bind to an allosteric site on an enzyme, reducing its activity without competing for the active site.

Cofactors

Beneficial molecules that assist enzymes in functioning, often bonding through ionic, hydrogen, or covalent bonds.

Coenzymes

Carbon-based cofactors, typically derived from vitamins and nutrients, that enhance enzyme activity.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The energy currency of the cell, which powers cellular actions through its breakdown to ADP.

Reaction Coupling

The process of linking different types of reactions to facilitate cellular functions.