Peroxidase Enzyme Activity

These flashcards cover key concepts and details related to the Peroxidase Enzyme Activity lab, including enzyme function, classification, safety precautions, and experimental methods.

What is the role of peroxidases in living organisms?

Peroxidases protect plants and animals against cell damage by catalyzing the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.

What factors affect enzyme activity?

Enzyme activity depends on concentration, pH, temperature, metal ions, and other environmental factors.

What is the optimum activity of many enzymes dependent on?

The presence or cooperation of nonprotein cofactors.

What are common inorganic cofactors for enzymes?

Metal ions, especially Fe3+, Zn2+, and Mg2+.

What is the role of coenzymes in enzymatic reactions?

Coenzymes are organic cofactors, such as NAD+ and FAD, which assist enzymes in catalyzing reactions.

How do enzymes differ from other catalysts?

Enzymes are more efficient, highly specific, and can be regulated by interacting with other molecules.

What are the six classes of enzymes?

1. Oxidoreductases, 2. Transferases, 3. Hydrolases, 4. Lyases, 5. Isomerases, 6. Ligases.

How is the term peroxidase defined?

Peroxidase refers to a class of oxidoreductase enzymes that catalyze the decomposition reaction of hydrogen peroxide.

What is the source of the enzyme used in the inquiry lab?

Peroxidase enzyme is extracted from turnip roots.

What substrate does peroxidase react with in the lab investigation?

Peroxidase reacts with hydrogen peroxide and guaiacol.

What is the visual indicator of the enzyme reaction involving guaiacol?

The oxidation of guaiacol produces a dark orange compound called tetraguaiacol.

What is the importance of the mechanism of enzyme activity?

Understanding enzyme mechanisms helps in learning about metabolic diseases and explaining unique properties of enzymes.

What safety precautions should be taken when handling guaiacol?

Guaiacol is toxic by ingestion and can irritate the nose and throat; handle with care and use protective gear.

What is the significance of measuring absorbance versus time in the experiment?

It allows determination of the rate of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction and supports modeling of enzyme action.

What conditions should be controlled during enzyme activity experiments?

Concentration of substrates and total volumes, alongside pH control.