Question

Can cell respiration occur in an organism at a temperature of about ${60}^{\circ }C$?

Give reason.

Answer 1

No, cell respiration cannot occur at such a high temperature in any organism because the temperature is strongly influences enzyme activity. Optimum temperature in most of the organisms for maximum enzyme function is usually about 35-40${}^{\circ }C$. Reactions proceed slowly below optimal temperatures. Above 45${}^{\circ }C$ most enzymes are denatured so the enzyme active site no longer fits with the substrate and the enzyme can't function.