What factors could cause an enzyme to become ineffective or unable to perform its function properly?

Question

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Pick any cell STRUCTURE: How would you compare the function of your cell structure to something in everyday life? (for example: cell membrane to a security system or gate.)
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What is the best comparison between eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells?
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They are almost exactly the same, having mostly the same structures
Prokaryotic cells only include bacteria, while eukaryotic cells are all other living things made of cells
Viruses are prokaryotic, and only plants and animal cells are eukaryotic
Eukaryotic cells are simple and small, but prokarytic cells are larger and more complex
Which of the following structures can be found in ALL cells, regardless of type?
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nucleus
cell membrane
mitochondria
cell wall
Viruses are infective particles. Please select all the following that are TRUE about viruses.
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Viruses are made of cells
Viruses must infect and take over a host cell to create new virus particles
Viruses have a cell membrane and other organelles
Viruses are simple structures containing DNA or RNA in a protein shell/capsid
Viruses are usually very specific for types of hosts they infect
Viruses are considered living by all scientists

Answer 1

Here are the answers to your questions:

1. Factors that could cause an enzyme to become ineffective or unable to perform its function properly:

   • Temperature: Extreme temperatures can denature enzymes, altering their shape and function. Enzymes have an optimal temperature range.
   • pH Levels: Each enzyme operates best at a specific pH level. Extreme changes can affect enzyme structure and activity.
   • Substrate Concentration: If there is no substrate available, an enzyme can't perform its function. Too much substrate can also lead to saturation and reduced efficiency.
   • Inhibitors: Molecules that bind to enzymes can inhibit their activity, either by blocking the active site (competitive inhibitors) or changing the enzyme's shape (non-competitive inhibitors).
   • Cofactor or Coenzyme Availability: Some enzymes require cofactors or coenzymes to function. If these are absent, the enzyme may be inactive.
   • Post-translational Modifications: Enzymes may require specific modifications (like phosphorylation) to be active. Lack of these modifications can lead to inactivity.

2. Comparison of a cell structure to something in everyday life:

   • Cell Membrane: The cell membrane can be compared to a security gate for a building. It controls who can enter and exit the cell, similar to how a security gate regulates access to a property. It provides protection and plays a critical role in communication and maintaining a stable internal environment.

3. Best comparison between eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells:

   • The correct answer is: Prokaryotic cells only include bacteria, while eukaryotic cells are all other living things made of cells.
   • This comparison highlights the major distinction in complexity and organization between the two types of cells.

4. Structures that can be found in ALL cells, regardless of type:

   • The correct answer is: cell membrane.
   • All cells have a cell membrane that encloses the cell and regulates the movement of substances in and out.

5. True statements about viruses:

   • Viruses must infect and take over a host cell to create new virus particles.
   • Viruses are simple structures containing DNA or RNA in a protein shell/capsid.
   • Viruses are usually very specific for types of hosts they infect.
   • (The other statements about viruses being made of cells, having a cell membrane and organelles, and being considered living by all scientists are FALSE.)

Let me know if you need further clarification or have additional questions!