The student then performed more tests by varying the pH of the buffer solution - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 7
The student then performed more tests by varying the pH of the buffer solution.
It is expected that
A. at pH 6 the reaction will cease.
B. at pH 9 the reaction will ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The student then performed more tests by varying the pH of the buffer solution - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. at pH 6 the reaction will cease.
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Answer
At pH 6, the specific activity of many enzymes may decrease significantly, potentially leading to the cessation of the reaction. This could be due to the enzyme being denatured or the active site being altered, inhibiting substrate binding.
Step 2
B. at pH 9 the reaction will be faster.
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At pH 9, many enzymes reach an optimal activity level, which can lead to an increase in reaction rates. This environment often supports enzyme structure and function, allowing for more effective substrate conversion.
Step 3
C. at pH 12 and pH 10 very little oxygen will be produced.
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At pH 12 and pH 10, the extreme alkalinity can inhibit the reaction that produces oxygen, either by affecting the enzyme's structural integrity or altering the reaction pathway, resulting in minimal oxygen production.