Explain the lock and key mechanism in relation to enzymes.

The lock and key mechanism is a metaphor to explain the specificity of the enzymes active site and the substrate. In the same way only certain keys fit a lock, only certain substrates fit an enzyme's active site. The substrate is specific to a certain active site. When the correct substrate binds to the enzyme's active site, an Enzyme substrate complex is formed. The enzyme catalyses a reaction, an Enzyme product complex is formed and the product is released. The enzyme can then be reused again and again to catalyse more reactions.

AM
Answered by Aditi M. Biology tutor

37818 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Name and explain the different modes of inheritance.


What is 'survival of the fittest?'


What is an allele?


What are the main differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration


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