Question

How does
`p_H` affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions? a. The concentration of protons affects an enzyme's folded structure and reactivity. b. Proton concentration increases the kinetic energy of the reactants, enabling them to reach their transition state. c. Energy stored in protons is used to drive endergonic reactions. d. Protons serve as substrates for most reactions.

Answer 1

A. The concentration of protons affects an enzyme's folded structure and reactivity.

Step-by-step explanation:

• Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the rate of chemical reactions without being consumed.
• Enzymes work best at specific pH and temperature known as optimum pH and optimum temperature respectively.
• Extreme pH affects the enzyme's folded structure that distorts the active sites making it difficult for the substrate to fit a phenomenon known as denaturation.
• Therefore, extreme pH decreases the rate of enzyme activity as a result of enzymes being denatured.