What happens to a catalyst when an enzyme is subjected to a pH far from its optimum range?

Question

What happens to a catalyst when an enzyme is subjected to a pH far from its optimum range?

The enzyme works faster.

The enzyme rebuilds.

The enzyme moves to a new location.

The enzyme is denatured (the enzyme shape changes).

Answer 1

When an enzyme is subjected to a pH far from its optimum range, the most accurate answer is:

The enzyme is denatured (the enzyme shape changes).

Extreme pH levels can disrupt the ionic and hydrogen bonds that help maintain the enzyme's three-dimensional structure, leading to a loss of its functional shape, which in turn negatively affects its ability to catalyze reactions.