Question

Which one is the cofactor of carbonic anhydrase?

• A. $\mathrm{Cu}$
• B. $\mathrm{Fe}$
• C. $\mathrm{Mg}$
• D. $\mathrm{Zn}$

Answer 1

The correct option is D

$\mathrm{Zn}$

Explanation for correct option

(D) $\mathbf{Zn}$

Catalysis

• The process of catalysis involves introducing a catalyst to a chemical reaction to speed up the process.
• Catalysts are not destroyed during the reaction and are unaffected by it.
• Enzymes are the biocatalysts.

Cofactor for carbonic anhydrase

• Cofactor is a non-protein constituent of an enzyme that is required for the protein's or enzyme's activity.
• The conversion of carbon dioxide into protons and bicarbonate ions was catalyzed by carbonic anhydrase.
• Zinc $\left(\mathrm{Zn}\right)$ is a cofactor for carbonic anhydrase.

Explanation for incorrect options

• Cofactor for carbonic anhydrase is $\mathrm{Zn}$.
• Hence, all other options (A), (B) and (C) are incorrect.

Therefore the correct option is (D) $\mathbf{Zn}$.