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Multiple Choice
How does pH affect the structure and function of an enzyme?
A
pH only affects the enzyme's function but not its structure.
B
pH can alter the enzyme's active site, affecting its ability to bind substrates.
C
pH changes can increase the enzyme's stability and activity.
D
pH has no effect on enzyme structure or function.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions, and their activity is highly dependent on their three-dimensional structure.
Recognize that the active site of an enzyme is the region where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction. The shape and charge of the active site are crucial for enzyme function.
Learn that pH can affect the ionization of amino acid side chains in the enzyme, particularly those in the active site, which can alter the enzyme's shape and charge properties.
Realize that changes in pH can lead to denaturation, where the enzyme loses its specific structure, thus affecting its ability to bind substrates and catalyze reactions effectively.
Conclude that pH can indeed affect both the structure and function of an enzyme by altering the active site and overall stability, which in turn influences the enzyme's activity and efficiency.