Final answer:
Catalase and potassium iodide (KI) should be treated differently in the lab due to their different roles: catalase is an enzyme that breaks down hydrogen peroxide, while KI is an inorganic compound with non-enzymatic functions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the laboratory, catalase and potassium iodide (KI) must be treated differently due to their distinct roles and chemical properties. Catalase is an enzyme that accelerates the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen without being consumed in the reaction. This enzymatic activity is essential for protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, a by-product of various metabolic processes. The catalase test is commonly used to determine if bacteria can produce this enzyme, which is indicative of aerobic respiration capabilities.
In contrast, KI is an inorganic compound that reacts differently and has different purposes in the laboratory, therefore the way it is handled and stored will vary in accordance with its specific use. Potassium iodide does not have enzymatic activity and is not used in the same type of biological assay as catalase. Hence, both substances require distinct considerations and protocols in a research or clinical laboratory setting.
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