Enzyme-Substrate Interaction: Key Concept Explained

Subject : Biology

Question:

Which of the following best describes the interaction between an enzyme and its substrate?

A. The substrate surrounds and completely contains the enzyme.

B. The enzyme temporarily deactivates the substrate.

C. Part of the enzyme temporarily binds to part of the substrate molecule.

D. The enzyme surrounds and completely contains the substrate.

Expert Verified Solution:

The correct answer is C: Part of the enzyme temporarily binds to part of the substrate molecule.

Explanation:

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. They work by interacting with specific molecules called substrates. The enzyme-substrate interaction is crucial for the enzyme’s catalytic activity.

In this interaction:

Part of the enzyme temporarily binds to part of the substrate molecule. This binding occurs at the enzyme’s active site, where the enzyme and substrate fit together like a lock and key. This temporary binding forms an enzyme-substrate complex, which facilitates the chemical reaction.

• Option A is incorrect because the substrate does not completely surround or contain the enzyme. Instead, they interact at a specific site.
• Option B is incorrect because the enzyme does not deactivate the substrate; rather, it helps convert the substrate into products.
• Option D is incorrect because the enzyme does not completely contain the substrate; it only binds to it temporarily.

This interaction is essential for the enzyme to perform its function and catalyze the chemical reaction efficiently.