Question

Changing the temperature or pH can change an enzyme's shape. Explain how changing the temperature or pH might affect the function of an enzyme.

Answer 1

Temperature: Raising temperature generally speeds up a reaction, and lowering temperature slows down a reaction. However, extreme high temperatures can cause an enzyme to lose its shape (denature) and stop working. pH: Each enzyme has an optimum pH range. Changing the pH outside of this range will slow enzyme activity.