Chemical reactions and enzymes

Chemical reactions Occur when 1 set of molecules change into another 1 CH4 + 2 O2  1CO2 + 2 H2O Reactants Products Molecules that enter reaction Molecules that are produced

Energy in reactions

Enzymes Catalysts Substance that speeds up a reaction but is not used up or changed by the reaction Heat does not work – not specific and would damage cells

Enzymes Catalysts Proteins Lower activation energy  speeds up reaction Very specific  due to tertiary folding (definite shape)

Enzymes Work? Substrates (reactants) bind to enzyme at active site Enzyme positions reactants allowing for reaction to take place Release products

Enzymes Factors affecting enzyme function Temperature Cold slows down reactions Body temperature  ideal Slightly above body temperature  slightly faster Higher temperature  denatures (changes shape) enzymes, no longer works pH  denatures enzyme