Speeding Up Life’s Chemistry

Enzymes are specialized proteins that catalyze, or speed up, chemical reactions inside living cells. Without enzymes, most biochemical reactions would occur too slowly to support life.

How Do Enzymes Work?

• Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction.
• They are highly specific; each enzyme fits only certain substrates, like a lock and key.

Factors Affecting Enzyme Activity

• Temperature: Most enzymes work best at body temperature.
• pH: Each enzyme has an ideal pH range.
• Concentration: More enzyme or substrate can speed up reactions, up to a point.

Real-World Importance

Enzymes are used in foods, medicine, and even laundry detergents to accelerate processes safely and efficiently.