Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Changes in which of the following factors can affect the activity of enzymes?
A
Magnetic field
B
Light intensity
C
Temperature
D
Pressure
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. Their activity can be influenced by several environmental factors.
Recognize that temperature is a key factor affecting enzyme activity. Enzymes have an optimal temperature range where they function most efficiently. Deviations from this range can lead to decreased activity or denaturation.
Consider how temperature affects molecular motion. As temperature increases, molecules move faster, potentially increasing the rate of enzyme-catalyzed reactions up to a point.
Acknowledge that extreme temperatures can denature enzymes, altering their structure and rendering them inactive. This is because the three-dimensional structure of enzymes is crucial for their function.
Note that while other factors like pH, substrate concentration, and inhibitors can also affect enzyme activity, temperature is a primary factor that directly influences the kinetic energy and stability of enzyme molecules.