Question

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

Explanation:

Enzymes are proteins. Denaturation changes their shape. A changed shape affects function (so A is wrong). Denaturation by heat (for most enzymes) is irreversible - lower temp won't fix it (so B is wrong). Denaturation ruins function, it's not necessary (so D is wrong).

Answer:

C. The denaturation of this enzyme by heat is irreversible. In other words, lowering the temperature DOES NOT fix the enzyme’s shape.