Edexcel Biology Enzymes Revision Notes
Master Edexcel Biology Enzymes using simple revision notes, key facts and practice questions — all generated by AI for your exam.
Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy required. They are typically proteins that function at specific temperatures and pH levels, and their activity can be influenced by various factors.
Key Concepts
- 1Enzymes are specific to their substrates due to their unique active sites.
- 2The lock and key model describes how substrates fit into the enzyme's active site.
- 3Enzyme activity can be affected by temperature, pH, and substrate concentration.
- 4Enzymes can be denatured by extreme conditions, losing their functional shape.
- 5Cofactors and coenzymes are non-protein molecules that assist enzyme function.
Simple Explanation
Enzymes are special proteins that help speed up chemical reactions in our bodies. They work by binding to specific molecules called substrates, making it easier for reactions to happen. Each enzyme is designed for a particular job, and things like heat or acidity can change how well they work. If conditions are too extreme, enzymes can lose their shape and stop working.
Memory Trick
“Remember 'E-S-L-C' for Enzymes: Specificity (E), Speed (S), Lock and Key (L), and Conditions (C) affecting activity.”
Flashcards
What is the role of enzymes in biological reactions?
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Exam Questions
Describe and explain the factors affecting enzyme activity. [6 marks]
6 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Discuss temperature, pH, substrate concentration, and enzyme concentration. Include effects on the active site and denaturation.
Explain how enzyme specificity is achieved. [4 marks]
4 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Discuss the structure of the active site and the lock and key model.
What is meant by enzyme denaturation? [2 marks]
2 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Define denaturation and explain how it affects enzyme function.
Practice Quiz
What is the primary function of enzymes?
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