Computer Interfacing

Enzyme Action: Testing Catalase Activity

Teacher's Information

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

1. The rate should be highest when the concentration of enzyme is highest. With higher concentration of enzyme, there is a greater chance of an effective collision between the enzyme and H₂O₂ molecule.
2. Roughly, the rate doubles when the concentration of enzyme doubles. Since the data are somewhat linear, the rate is proportional to the concentration. At a concentration of 5 drops, the rate in the above experiment should be about 1.10 atm/min.
3. Student answers may vary. Activity is usually highest at pH values between 7-10 and lowest between pH 2-4.
4. Student answers may vary. Usually, the enzyme activity increases from pH 3 to 8 and decreases above 10. At high or low pH's, the protein may denature or change its structure. This may affect the enzyme's ability to recognize a substrate or it may alter its polarity within a cell.
5. The temperature at which the rate of enzyme activity is the highest should be close to 30°C. The lowest rate of enzyme activity should be at 60°C.
6. The rate increases as the temperature increases, until the temperature reaches about 50°C. Above this temperature, the rate decreases.
7. At high temperatures, enzymes lose activity as they are denatured.
8. Student answers may vary.

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