How and why does an increase in temperature effect the rate of an enzyme substrate reaction?

As temperature increases up to the optimal temperature for the enzyme, the rate of reaction will increase at a steady rate because the kinetic energy of the enzyme and substrate molecules increases, so therefore the moleculess move faster and are more likely to colide, meaning that enzyme subtrate complexes are more likely to form. At temperatures above the optimal temperature for the enzyme, reaction rate drops rapidly. This is because the enzyme molecules will start to denature above optimal temperatures, meaning that the active site changes shape and is no longer complementary to the shape of the substrate, so enzyme substrate complexes cannot form and the reaction cannot procede.

(n.b. this would best answered with the addition of a sketch graph showing temperature vs rate of reaction)

ES
Answered by Edward S. Biology tutor

3447 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Bob and Brenda are both heterozygous for a genetically inherited recessive trait. (a) Calculate the probability that they would have a healthy child. Use a genetic diagram to help. (b) Suggest an example of a recessive inherited disorder


Describe the changes that take place in the iris when moving into a dark room.


Explain why the contraction times of the atria and ventricles in the heart differ.


Explain how a substitution mutation could cause an enzyme not to work (5)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning