Enzymes

This study unit begins with an examination of the chemical nature of enzymes and how their structure contributes to their activity. The Lock and Key Analogy along with the induced fit hypothesis are explained before the need to control energy loss and gain by cells is considered. Included in this topic is activation energy and metabolic pathways. The unit then delves into factors that can affect the activity of enzymes, including: temperature, pH, inhibitors, heavy metal ions, the presence or absence of cofactors and so on. The unit is supported by original artwork and labeled diagrams and contains many questions such as short answer and multiple choice that are linked to their answers for self-testing. It also includes sets of written answer questions to help build one’s understanding of the concepts presented. The unit features an interactive Glossary with hundreds of contextually explained terms.

Enzymes is extracted from Biology 12 Study Guide, which is the sixth edition of a student study guide written to match the curriculum of British Columbia. The concepts presented are applicable to the biology curricula of other educational jurisdictions as well.