The graph below shows the results obtained from testing the activity of a bacterial enzyme - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 25
The graph below shows the results obtained from testing the activity of a bacterial enzyme.
(a) Name ONE variable, other than temperature, that would have been cont... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The graph below shows the results obtained from testing the activity of a bacterial enzyme - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Name ONE variable, other than temperature, that would have been controlled in the experiment.
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Answer
One variable that could have been controlled in the experiment is the pH level, as it can significantly affect enzyme activity.
Step 2
For what temperature range does the enzyme display the maximum rate of change in activity?
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Answer
The enzyme displays the maximum rate of change in activity between 89°C and 93°C.
Step 3
Account for the activity of the enzyme at the parts of the graph labelled A, B, C and D.
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At part A, the enzyme activity increases consistently as the temperature rises, indicating that the enzyme is functioning effectively. At part B, the enzyme activity peaks, reaching a maximum of 10 µmol/s, which signifies optimum enzymatic activity. In part C, the activity begins to decline, suggesting a possible reduction in enzymatic efficiency as the temperature continues to increase. This may be due to the denaturation of the enzyme structure. Finally, at part D, the graph drops sharply to zero, indicating that the enzyme has been denatured completely and can no longer function.
Step 4
Based on the information in the graph, suggest the type of environment in which these bacteria might survive.
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Answer
Bacteria could survive in hot geothermal springs or geysers where temperatures may be up to 90°C.
