A heavy-metal ion may disrupt the functioning of an enzyme because:
A)substrates bond to the metal ion
B)a metal ion may change the shape of the active site
C)metal ions raise the pH of cellular fluid
D)metal ions displace enzymes in intracellular fluid

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A heavy-metal ion may bind to an enzyme, thereby changing its shape or structure and affecting its ability to function properly at its active site. This disruption in the enzyme's functioning may lead to an inability of the enzyme to catalyze reactions or to catalyze reactions at a slower rate.

A Heavy-Metal Ion May Disrupt the Functioning of an Enzyme