Question

based on the computer curves shown below:
a) what is the optimal ph for catalase activity?
b) why does the enzyme show no activity at ph 12?
a) ph 7...... b) at ph 12, the enzyme has low kinetic energy.
a) ph 7...... b) at ph 12, the environment of the enzyme is too acidic for the enzyme to function.
a) ph 7...... b) at ph 12, the enzyme is denatured.

Explanation:

• Part A: Enzymes have an optimal pH where their activity is highest. From the graph, the curve for pH 7 shows the highest pressure (which is likely an indicator of enzyme activity, as more enzyme activity would produce more gas, increasing pressure). So, pH 7 is the optimal pH.
• Part B: Enzymes are proteins. High pH (pH 12 is basic) can disrupt the hydrogen bonds and other interactions that maintain the enzyme's 3 - D structure. When the structure is disrupted (denatured), the enzyme loses its activity as its active site (where the substrate binds) is no longer functional.

Answer:

A) pH 7...... B) at pH 12, the enzyme is denatured.