Define enzyme and describe their characteristics and specifications.

An enzyme is a protein molecule that acts as a catalyst to speed up biochemical reactions without being consumed in the process. Enzymes are highly specific for their substrates, meaning each enzyme catalyzes only a particular reaction. They have an active site where the substrate binds, and the enzyme-substrate complex forms. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, making reactions happen faster. Characteristics of enzymes include high specificity, sensitivity to temperature and pH, and the ability to work at low concentrations. Most enzymes are proteins, though some RNA molecules also function as enzymes (ribozymes).

Related Questions:

  1. Define enzyme and describe their characteristics and specifications.
  2. What is the energy of activation? Explain with reference to enzyme.
  3. What happens to enzymes when you increase or decrease: (a) Temperature (b) pH (c) Substrate concentration?
  4. Only the related key can open the lock. How is this fact true for enzymes? Explain with examples.
  5. Describe the structure and uses of ATP.
  6. Describe and sketch light reactions of photosynthesis.
  7. Describe and sketch dark reactions of photosynthesis?
  8. Explain the factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis.
  9. Compare respiration and photosynthesis with examples.
  10. What are the advantages and significance of anaerobic respiration and fermentation in your daily life?
  11. Describe and explain the process of aerobic respiration.
  12. Describe the structure and uses of ATP.
  13. Why are enzymes called biological catalysts?
  14. Name the factors affecting enzyme activity. At what pH do pepsin and trypsin enzymes act the best?
  15. What happens to an enzyme when it is frozen below 0°C?
  16. What happens when a protein-digesting enzyme functions in an acidic medium?
  17. How does an enzyme lower the activation energy?
  18. Why are enzymes specific and why can’t each one speed up many different reactions?
  19. Why is a small quantity of enzyme enough for catalyzing a large number of substrate molecules into products?
  20. According to the induced fit model, the active site is flexible. Does it mean that any substrate can attach to this flexible active site? If not, then explain.