Question

what are enzymes? write in brief the mechanism of enzyme catalysis.

Answer 1

some organisms take complex food substances.These food substances must be breakdown it simpler ones before they can be used to keep up the body and its growth for this they use bio catalyst called enzymes.

Answer 2

Answer:

Protein molecules of high molecular masses are termed as enzymes. Colloidal solutions are formed when these are dissolved in water. These are complex, nitrogenous organic compounds produced by living plants and animals. Enzymes are also called ‘biochemical catalysts’.

Mechanism of enzyme catalysis:

Various cavities are present with characteristic shapes, on the surface of the enzymes. Such cavities possess active groups such as –NH2, −COOH, etc. Complementary shape of the reactant molecules fit into the cavities just like a key fits into a lock. Activated complexes are formed due to this. This complex then decomposes to give the product.

Hence,

Step 1: E + S → ES+

(Activated complex)

Step 2: ES+ → E + P