Enzymes

Introduction

• Enzymes are special proteins that play a crucial role in catalysing biochemical reactions within living organisms.
• Each enzyme has a specific function, and they are named based on the reactions they facilitate. For example, amylase is an enzyme present in saliva that catalyses the hydrolysis of starch into the disaccharide maltose.

Active Site

• Enzymes possess a specific region known as the "active site."
• The active site has a unique shape that allows it to interact with specific reactants, known as "substrates," in a highly specific manner, similar to a lock and key mechanism.
• Only the correct substrates that match the shape of the enzyme's active site can bind to it and undergo a chemical change.

Specificity

• Enzyme function is directly related to the molecular shape of proteins.
• The specificity of enzymes ensures that they only interact with the substrates they are designed to work with, preventing incorrect substrates from binding to the active site.

Conclusion

• Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up biochemical reactions in living organisms.
• Each enzyme has a unique active site that fits specific substrates, ensuring high specificity in their functions.
• Enzymes play a crucial role in various biological processes by facilitating chemical reactions necessary for life.

---

Soap Properties

Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Properties

• The non-polar hydrocarbon tail of soap is soluble in non-polar substances, like oils and grease.
• Because the hydrophobic tail is repelled by water, it is described as hydrophobic (water-hating).
• In contrast, the polar carboxylate head is soluble in polar substances, including water. It is described as hydrophilic (water-loving).

Cleaning Action

• When soap is used for cleaning, it acts as a bridge between non-polar substances (e.g., grease) and water.
• The hydrophobic tails of soap molecules embed themselves into the grease, while the hydrophilic heads remain in contact with water.
• Through agitation or scrubbing, soap molecules break down grease into smaller droplets, surrounded by negatively charged hydrophilic heads.
• These negatively charged heads repel each other, preventing the re-aggregation of grease droplets.

Conclusion:

• Soap's structure, consisting of a hydrophobic tail and a hydrophilic head, enables it to effectively remove non-polar substances like grease from surfaces by allowing them to mix with water. This unique property makes soap an essential cleaning agent.