enzymes

Free Energy Graph

A graph that shows how energy changes during a chemical reaction, helping to determine if a reaction is spontaneous.

Substrate

The reactant molecule that an enzyme acts upon during a chemical reaction.

Enzyme

A biological catalyst that accelerates a chemical reaction without being consumed.

Lactase

An enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.

OMPG

A lactose substitute used in experiments to test the action of lactase.

Spectrophotometer

An instrument used to measure the amount of light absorbed by a solution to analyze changes in concentration.

Rate of Reaction

The speed at which reactants are converted to products in a chemical reaction.

Independent Variable

The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Amino Acid

Building blocks of proteins, composed of a central carbon, an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable R group.

Polypeptide

A chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, forming proteins.

Tertiary Structure

The three-dimensional shape of a protein that is formed by the folding of the polypeptide chain.

Denaturation

The process where proteins lose their structure and function due to environmental changes, such as heat.

Biological Time Frame

The time scale on which biological processes occur, often measured in seconds to minutes.

Phospholipid

A type of lipid molecule that is a major component of cell membranes, consisting of two fatty acids, a glycerol, and a phosphate group.

Figure Legend

A description or explanation of a figure, graph, or illustration in a scientific context, providing information essential for understanding.