8. (a) Answer the following in relation to enzymes - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 8 - 2017
Question 8
8.
(a) Answer the following in relation to enzymes.
(i) Give a factor, other than pH, which affects enzyme activity.
(ii) Explain the term optimum activity.
(b... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:8. (a) Answer the following in relation to enzymes - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 8 - 2017
Step 1
Give a factor, other than pH, which affects enzyme activity.
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Answer
Temperature is a key factor that affects enzyme activity. It can speed up reactions when increased to an optimal level, but extreme heat can denature enzymes, causing them to lose functionality.
Step 2
Explain the term optimum activity.
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Answer
Optimum activity refers to the condition under which an enzyme exhibits its highest level of activity. This is typically defined by factors such as temperature and pH, where the enzyme operates at its most efficient and best rate, leading to the fastest reaction possible.
Step 3
Name the enzyme that you used in this investigation.
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Answer
The enzyme used in this investigation was catalase.
Step 4
State:
1. The source of this enzyme.
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Answer
The source of this enzyme is celery.
Step 5
2. The substrate of this enzyme.
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The substrate of this enzyme is hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂).
Step 6
Explain why changing the pH would have an effect on enzyme activity.
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Changing the pH affects enzyme activity because it alters the shape of the enzyme's active site. If the pH is too high or too low, the enzyme can become denatured, preventing it from binding to the substrate effectively and thus reducing its activity.
Step 7
How did you measure the rate of enzyme activity?
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The rate of enzyme activity was measured by observing the height of foam produced in a reaction with catalase, recorded in terms of volume per minute.
Step 8
Label the axes and sketch a graph to show the effect of pH on enzyme activity.
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In the graph:
The Y-axis represents enzyme activity or rate of reaction.
The X-axis represents pH levels.
The sketch should show an upward curve reaching the optimum pH, followed by a decline in activity on either side, indicating enzyme denaturation.
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