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Figure 3 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 3
Figure 3 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels. (a) (i) Describe the trend in the graph for the enzyme trypsin. Use data from ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 3 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels - Edexcel - GCSE Biology Combined Science - Question 3 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the trend in the graph for the enzyme trypsin.
Answer
The graph shows that trypsin activity increases as the pH rises from 1 to approximately 8. This indicates that trypsin is most active in a slightly alkaline environment. The enzyme reaches peak activity around pH 8, where it exhibits its highest enzyme activity. Beyond this pH, the enzyme activity begins to decline, suggesting a decrease in effectiveness at very high or low pH levels.
Step 2
Step 3
Describe the conditions in the stomach that allow pepsin to work effectively.
Answer
In the stomach, conditions are highly acidic, typically around pH 1.5 to 3, which is ideal for pepsin's activity. The acidic environment helps maintain the enzyme's structure and function, allowing it to effectively digest proteins.
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