Why are enzymes considered highly specific?

Enzymes are highly specific because their active sites have a specific shape that matches only one type of substrate molecule. This specificity ensures that enzymes catalyze only particular reactions, preventing unintended chemical processes.   Related Questions: Why are enzymes called biological catalysts? Name the factors affecting enzyme activity. At what pH do pepsin and trypsin … Read more

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

Temperature increases the rate of enzyme activity up to an optimal point. Beyond this optimal temperature, enzyme activity decreases as the enzyme denatures due to excessive heat, changing its shape and reducing its efficiency.   Related Questions: Why are enzymes called biological catalysts? Name the factors affecting enzyme activity. At what pH do pepsin and … Read more

How are photosynthesis and aerobic respiration interlinked with each other?

Photosynthesis and aerobic respiration are interlinked because the products of one process are the reactants of the other. In photosynthesis, plants produce oxygen and glucose using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. In aerobic respiration, organisms (including plants) use oxygen and glucose to produce carbon dioxide, water, and ATP. This creates a cycle where the oxygen … Read more

Name the products of anaerobic respiration in muscle cells.

The products of anaerobic respiration in muscle cells are lactic acid (lactate) and a small amount of ATP. This process occurs when oxygen is scarce, such as during intense exercise. Related Questions: Why are enzymes called biological catalysts? Name the factors affecting enzyme activity. At what pH do pepsin and trypsin enzymes act the best? … Read more

Write the equation of: a) Photosynthesis b) Fermentation c) Aerobic respiration

Here are the balanced chemical equations for each process: a) Photosynthesis 6CO2+6H2O+light energy→C6H12O6+6O2​(Carbon dioxide + Water + Light energy → Glucose + Oxygen) b) Fermentation There are different types of fermentation, but the most common is alcoholic fermentation and lactic acid fermentation. Alcoholic Fermentation (by yeast and some bacteria): C6H12O6→2C2H5OH+2CO2​(Glucose → Ethanol + Carbon dioxide) … Read more

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.

No, not any substrate can attach to a flexible active site. According to the induced fit model, the enzyme’s active site changes shape upon binding to the substrate, but it still requires a specific fit. The flexibility allows the enzyme to better accommodate the substrate, but only substrates that have complementary shapes and chemical properties … Read more

Why is a small quantity of enzyme enough for catalyzing a large number of substrate molecules into products?

Enzymes are highly efficient, and a small amount of enzyme can catalyze the transformation of many substrate molecules. Enzymes are not consumed in the reaction, allowing them to be reused multiple times. This efficiency means that even small amounts of enzymes can catalyze large-scale reactions.   Related Questions: Why are enzymes called biological catalysts? Name … Read more