Question

mini-quiz: ph and enzymes
based off of your observations of the enzyme shown, which of the following is true?
a. the denaturation of this enzyme by ph changes is reversible. in other words, restoring the ph to an optimal level does fix the enzymes shape.
b. the denaturation of this enzyme by ph changes is irreversible. in other words, restoring the ph to an optimal level does not fix the enzymes shape.
c. the denaturation of the enzyme does not affect the enzymes function.
d. the denaturation of the enzyme is necessary in order for the enzyme to work properly.
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Explanation:

Enzymes are proteins, and when they are denatured by extreme pH changes, the damage to their structure is usually irreversible. Once the shape (which is crucial for function) is altered in an irreversible way by pH - related denaturation, restoring the pH to optimal levels won't fix the enzyme's shape. Option C is wrong because denaturation affects function (as function is related to shape). Option D is incorrect as denaturation impairs, not helps, enzyme function. Option A is wrong because pH - induced denaturation of enzymes is typically irreversible.

Answer:

B. The denaturation of this enzyme by pH changes is irreversible. In other words, restoring the pH to an optimal level DOES NOT fix the enzyme’s shape.