Describe what is meant by the 'lock and key' theory.

When binding two things together in biology, such as an enzyme and a substrate, in order to fit together they musth ave a specific shape. The shape of the enzyme active site must be the reciprocal to the shape of the substrates binding site, they are the opposite to each other so they can fit together. Each enzyme and substrate have a different active site and therefore only a few will be able to interact with each other, ie. there are several 'locks' (the enzyme) and several easy (the substrate) but the key may not necessarily open the lock, (the enzyme may not be activated).

LW
Answered by Lily W. Biology tutor

4430 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is blood filtrated by the glomeruli in the kidneys?


What is protein synthesis and how does it work?


Describe the process of semi-conservative replication


Where do all the stages of respiration (aerobic and anaerobic) happen?


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences