Describe the action of enzymes including how they are denatured, using the lock and key model

 The key is the enzyme and substrate is the lock. Like a key only unlocks one lock, the active site on the enzyme only fits in 1 type of substrate. Extreme temperature or pH (how acidic something is) denatures enzymes which alters the shape of the active site. This means the 'key' that is the active site on the enzyme will not fit into the 'lock' substrate.

ET
Answered by Emily T. Biology tutor

7157 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the lock and key hypothesis of chemical reactions.


Explain how blood is pumped around the body


Describe the role of bile in the digestive system


If cells can respire anaerobically, why do humans need oxygen?


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning