enzymes b5

What are enzymes?

Protein molecules that catalyse specific reactions in organisms

What does catalyse mean?

Speed up a reaction

Why are enzymes described as specific?

Each enzyme only catalyses a specific reaction because the active site only fits together with certain substrates

What is the example used for enzymes

Lock and key

Describe the function of amylase

To read down starch into simple sugars

Where is amylase produced?

• salivary glands

• pancreas

• small intestines

Describe the function of protease

To break down proteins into amino acids

Where are protease produced

• stomach

• pancreas

• small intestine

Describe the function of lipase

To break down lipids into fatty acids and glycerol

Where are lipase produced

• pancreas

• small intestines

What are two factors that affect the rate of activity in an enzyme

Temperature and ph