Topic 3.2: Environmental Impacts on Enzyme Function

What happens to an enzymatic system if its molecular structure changes?

There may be a change in its function or efficiency.

What is denaturation?

The disruption of a protein's structure, which eliminates its ability to catalyze reactions.

Which three environmental factors can cause denaturation?

Changes in temperature, pH, or the chemical environment.

How do extreme temperature and pH physically alter an enzyme?

They disrupt the hydrogen bonds that maintain the enzyme's structure.

Is denaturation always permanent?

In some cases, it is reversible, allowing the enzyme to regain activity.

How do substrate and product concentrations affect an enzyme?

Their relative concentrations determine how efficiently the reaction proceeds.

Why do higher temperatures initially increase the rate of reaction?

They increase the speed of molecular movement, leading to a higher frequency of collisions between enzymes and substrates.

How does a competitive inhibitor work?

It binds reversibly to the active site of the enzyme, blocking the substrate.

How does a noncompetitive inhibitor work?

It binds to an allosteric site, changing the enzyme's shape and activity.