Question

lock and key
using your notes, fill in the blank and answer the questions below.
1 what is the lock and key model of enzyme action, and how does it explain enzyme specificity?
2 how does the shape of an enzymes active site determine its specificity for a particular substrate? use the lock and key model to support your explanation.

Explanation:

The "lock and key" model of enzyme action posits that enzymes (locks) have specific active sites that fit only certain substrates (keys). Enzyme specificity is explained as only substrates with a complementary shape to the active site can bind. The shape of the active site is like a mold; only the substrate (key) with the matching shape can insert (bind). This geometric complementarity ensures the enzyme acts only on its specific substrate.

Answer:

1. The “lock and key” model views enzymes as having rigid active sites (locks) that precisely fit specific substrates (keys). Enzyme specificity is due to this unique fit; only the correct - shaped substrate binds.
2. The active - site shape is like a lock’s interior. Only a substrate (key) with a complementary shape can bind. For example, if the active site is hexagonal (lock), only a hexagonal - shaped substrate (key) binds, showing specificity based on shape complementarity.