How does the shape of an enzyme affect its function? Select the TWO answers that are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Enzymes are protein molecules that function as biological catalysts. The specific three-dimensional shape or conformation of an enzyme is essential for its function. The active site, a specific region on the enzyme, allows the substrate to bind with the enzyme. The shape of an enzyme determines what substrate it can bind and the specificity of the reaction. When the substrate binds to the active site, the enzyme's conformational changes stabilize the transition state of the substrate, lowering the activation energy and facilitating the reaction. Therefore, choices B and C are correct. Conversely, choices A, D, and E are incorrect because enzymes do not need to maintain a constantly rigid shape, a misshapen enzyme does not typically improve the efficiency of a chemical reaction, and an enzyme that lacks a proper shape or conformation may be denatured, not dissolved in the cytoplasm.

How Does the Shape of an Enzyme Affect Its Function