Question

An enzyme functions optimally at ${37}^{o}C$. The enzyme is heated to ${60}^{o}C$ for a short period of time and then the temperature is returned to ${37}^{o}C$. The rate of the enzyme catalyzed reaction does not returns to its previous level.
Which best explains whether or not the enzyme denatured?

• A. The enzyme denatured because the temperature was raised.
• B. The enzyme denatured because the rate of the reaction was affected.
• C. The enzyme does not got denatured because the rate of the reaction was affected.
• D. The enzyme did not denature because the rate of reaction returned to previous levels.
• E. The enzyme did not denature because the pH was not changed.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

The enzyme denatured because the temperature was raised.

If the temperature is raised to very high level, enzyme activity decreases because denaturation of proteins occur which makes the enzyme inactive.

Hence when the enzyme was heated to 60° C, the rate of enzyme catalysed reaction didn't return to its previous level because the enzyme got denatured at high temperature.

So, the correct answer is 'The enzyme denatured because the temperature was raised'.