Explain the effect of an increase in temperature on enzymatic activity

All enzymes have an optimum temperature, at which rate of reaction/catalysis is fastest. Any deviation from the optimum temperature will slow down rate of reaction.

Like most chemical reactions, an increase in temperature will increase the rate of reaction. However, enzymes are proteins and have the ability to be denatured above a certain temperature. At this point, the enzyme loses its catalytic properties and rate of reaction will decrease rapidly.

The relationship between temperature change and rate of enzyme activity is best demonstrated with this graph; commonly reffered to as 'the bell curve'.

CT
Answered by Charlie T. Biology tutor

5614 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Give the importance of the lock and key model of an enzyme


What are the structural differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?


i) Briefly explain the difference between anaerobic and aerobic respiration (2). ii) Which of these reactions produce more energy and briefly describe why?(2)


Describe the difference between the function of an effector and receptor, giving an example of each.


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