What determines the direction of the Rubisco-catalyzed reactions? A)the concentration of O₂ alone B)the concentration of CO₂ alone C)the CO₂/O₂ ratio available to the enzyme D)cofactors for Rubisco

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of the Rubisco-catalyzed reactions is determined by the CO₂/O₂ ratio available to the enzyme. This ratio determines which of the two substrates (CO₂ or O₂) is preferentially bound by the enzyme and therefore which reaction is catalyzed. The presence of cofactors for Rubisco may enhance the reaction rate, but does not determine the direction of the reaction. The concentration of either substrate alone does not determine the direction of the reaction.

What Determines the Direction of the Rubisco-Catalyzed Reactions