Match the correct term in enzyme action with each description.
A) coenzyme
B) lock-and-key theory
C) cofactor
D) active site
E) enzyme-substrate complex
1) the temporary combination of an enzyme with the compound on which it acts
2) an organic compound that is sometimes needed for an active enzyme
3) the portion of an enzyme molecule where catalytic activity occurs
4) an inorganic substance such as Mg2+ required by some enzymes for activity
5) one theory that accounts for the unusual specificity of an enzyme
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Here is the correct matching of terms with their descriptions:
- A) coenzyme → 2) an organic compound that is sometimes needed for an active enzyme
- B) lock-and-key theory → 5) one theory that accounts for the unusual specificity of an enzyme
- C) cofactor → 4) an inorganic substance such as Mg2+ required by some enzymes for activity
- D) active site → 3) the portion of an enzyme molecule where catalytic activity occurs
- E) enzyme-substrate complex → 1) the temporary combination of an enzyme with the compound on which it acts
Explanation:
Enzyme action is essential to many biological processes, as enzymes are catalysts that speed up chemical reactions. Here’s a breakdown of the terms:
- Coenzyme: This refers to an organic molecule that binds to an enzyme and assists in its function. Coenzymes are often derived from vitamins and help in enzyme catalysis by transferring functional groups or electrons. Examples of coenzymes include NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and coenzyme A. Without a coenzyme, some enzymes would not function properly.
- Lock-and-Key Theory: This theory explains the specificity of enzymes. It suggests that the enzyme’s active site (where the reaction occurs) has a specific shape that fits only certain substrates, much like a key fits into a lock. This specificity ensures that enzymes catalyze only particular reactions, preventing unwanted side reactions.
- Cofactor: These are inorganic ions like magnesium (Mg2+) or zinc (Zn2+) that are required by certain enzymes for their catalytic activity. Cofactors are not part of the enzyme’s protein structure but are necessary for the enzyme to perform its function.
- Active Site: The active site is a region on the enzyme where the substrate binds. It is the site where the catalytic action happens, converting the substrate into a product. The shape of the active site is complementary to the substrate, which ensures that only specific molecules interact.
- Enzyme-Substrate Complex: This is a temporary formation that occurs when a substrate binds to the enzyme’s active site. It’s during this phase that the substrate undergoes the transformation into products.
Now I’ll generate a diagram to visualize the enzyme action.
Here is the educational diagram showing enzyme action. It highlights key components such as the enzyme, active site, substrate, enzyme-substrate complex, and the involvement of coenzymes and cofactors. This should help you visualize how the enzyme functions at the molecular level. Let me know if you’d like further clarification!
