How do enzymes work and what would be the effects of an increasing temperature on an enzyme controlled reaction?

Enzymes are biological catalysts that work by increasing the speed of a reaction, without being altered or used up in the reaction. Each enzyme has an active site specific to a particular substrate and therefore is complementary to its substrate molecule. The substrate molecule fits into the active site and a reaction occurs, the product of the reaction leaves and the enzyme remains unaltered and ready to accept another substrate. Increasing the temperature increases the rate of the reaction. Both enzyme and substrate molecules have more energy and therefore move around more, increasing the chance of a collision. However, if the temperature increases past the optimum temperature the enzymes will start to denature - and will unravel altering the shape of the active site so substrates can no longer fit and a reaction can no longer occur.

Answered by Jessica H. Biology tutor

2272 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A blood test called the glucose tolerance test checks how well the body processes glucose. Concentrations of glucose in the blood are measured before and after drinking a glucose drink. Suggest why patients are not allowed to eat for 8 hours before?


How do bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics?


Explain the difference between diffusion and active transport with examples.


What is a reflex arc and why is it important?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy