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Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction to occur. They are specific in their function, often recognizing and binding to specific substrates. Enzymes are usually proteins with a complex three-dimensional structure that can be denatured by high temperatures or extreme pH levels.

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Q: What best characterizes an enzyme?
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What is the Michaelis constant?

The Michaelis constant (Km) is a parameter that characterizes the affinity of an enzyme for its substrate. It represents the substrate concentration at which an enzyme works at half of its maximum velocity. A lower Km value indicates higher affinity between the enzyme and substrate.


An enzyme that works best in an acidic environment would function best at a pH of what?

An enzyme that works best in an acidic environment would function best at a pH below 7, typically around pH 4 to 6. At this pH range, the enzyme's active site is more stable and optimal for catalyzing reactions.


What is the true relationship between pH and enzyme action?

Enzyme activity is highly dependent on pH. Each enzyme has an optimal pH range where it functions most effectively. Deviation from this optimal pH can cause denaturation or inhibition of the enzyme, ultimately affecting its activity. pH can influence the ionization state of amino acid side chains in the enzyme's active site, affecting substrate binding and catalysis.


What is the optimum temperature for enzyme 2?

The optimum temperature for an enzyme is the temperature at which it exhibits maximum activity. For enzyme 2, its optimum temperature would be specific to that enzyme and can vary depending on its source. Usually, it falls within the range of 37-40°C for most enzymes found in human cells.


How do changes in pH and temperature affect the native confirmation of an enzyme?

Changes in pH and temperature can disrupt the bonds that hold the enzyme in its native conformation. This can lead to denaturation of the enzyme, resulting in loss of its catalytic activity. Each enzyme has an optimal pH and temperature at which it functions best, and deviations from these conditions can affect enzyme structure and function.