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Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Explain the mode of action of enzymes in terms of an active site, enzyme-substrate complex, lowering of activation energy and enzyme specificity.
🕜Estimated Time: 40 mins
Definition of Enzymes
Definition of Enzymes
Enzymes are biological catalysts made of protein. They alter the rate of chemical reactions without themselves being chemically changed at the end of the reactions. Watch the video below to learn more about the different components involved in the catalysis reaction.
How do enzymes 'alter the rate of chemical reactions'?
How do enzymes 'alter the rate of chemical reactions'?
Activation energy of a reaction
Activation energy (Ea) is the energy needed to start a chemical reaction.
Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy required to start a chemical reaction.
Enzymes lower activation energy of reaction
Enzyme Specificity
Enzyme Specificity
Enzymes are specific in their action
E.g. amylase only act on starch, protease only act on protein.
Such specificity is due to the enzyme’s three dimensional shape.
The shape of the substrate is complementary to the shape of the enzyme.
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Test Your Understanding!
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