The enzyme fumarase catalyzes the reversible hydration of fumaric acid to l-malate, but it will not catalyze the hydration of maleic acid, the cis isomer of fumaric acid. This is an example of:
A) biological activity.
B) chiral activity.
C) racemization.
D) stereoisomerization.
E) stereospecificity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The enzyme fumarase has stereospecific activity, meaning it can only catalyze the hydration of one stereoisomer (fumaric acid) and not its cis isomer (maleic acid). It is not an example of biological activity, chiral activity, racemization, or stereoisomerization.

The Enzyme Fumarase Catalyzes the Reversible Hydration of Fumaric Acid