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biology – enzymes
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Enzyme | A 3D-shaped protein that acts as a biological catalyst |
| Catalyst | A substance that controls the rate of a chemical reaction without being used up in the reaction |
| Substrate | The molecule an enzyme acts on |
| Product | The molecule formed by enzyme action |
| Selective catalyst | The 3D shape of an enzyme and the 3D shape of a molecule must match for an enzyme to work properly |
| Enzyme specificity | Each type of enzyme acts only on one substrate or class of substrates due to the unique shape of its active site |
| Complex | A close interaction between two or more molecules |
| Activation energy | The minimum amount of energy needed to overcome the energy barrier and to start a chemical reaction |
| Examples of catabolic reactions | Respiration & Chemical digestion of starch and proteins |
| Examples of anabolic reactions | Photosynthesis & Protein synthesis |
| What is an anabolic reaction? | A metabolic reaction that uses energy to join small molecules to form larger molecules |
| What is a catabolic reaction? | A metabolic reaction that releases energy by breaking down large molecules into smaller molecules |
| Osmosis | Movement of water from a high concentration to a low concentration |
| Active transport | Movement of particles against a gradient from a low concentration to a high concentration |
| Diffusion | Movement of particles from a high concentration to a low concentration |
| Biofuel | A renewable fuel made from plant, animal or microbial materials, including wastes |
| Optimal | The best or most favourable condition for a specific biological process |
| Bioreactor | A container in which a biochemical reaction takes place |
| Immobilised enzyme | An enzyme that is held in a fixed position |
| Bioprocessing | The use of living things or their parts to manufacture products or perform services |
| Lipid | A diverse group of substances which include fats, oils, steroids and waxes |
| Denatured enzyme | An enzyme that has lost its normal shape and ability to work properly |
| Examples of enzymes | Amylase, lipase & protease |
| What is the function of the active site of an enzyme? | To bind to a substrate and catalyze a specific chemical reaction |