Question

Welcome to the grand finale of the science fair - the ‘Enzymes in Action’ pavilion! This interactive area showcases the amazing molecular machines called enzymes that speed up every chemical reaction in living things. Local biotechnology students, culinary arts programs, and health science clubs have created hands-on demonstrations using everyday materials. As you help visitors understand these enzyme experiments, you’ll discover why these special proteins are essential for life.
Question 7 (11.111111111 points)

The “pH Testing Lab” has results from testing a particular enzyme at different pH levels: it works best at pH 7 (neutral), works slower at pH 5 and pH 9, and completely stops working at pH 2 and pH 12 (very acidic and very basic). What does this pattern reveal about how enzymes function?
Question 7 options:

All enzymes only work at exactly pH 7 and stop functioning at any other pH level

Each enzyme has an optimal pH range, and extreme pH levels permanently damage enzyme structure

All enzymes work best in very acidic or very basic conditions regardless of their source

pH doesn't really affect enzyme function since the enzyme worked at several different pH levels

Answer 1

Correct answer: Each enzyme has an optimal pH range, and extreme pH levels permanently damage enzyme structure.

Explanation: Enzyme activity depends on the shape of the active site, which is held by interactions (hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds) sensitive to H+ concentration. Mild deviations slow activity; very acidic or basic conditions disrupt those bonds (denature the protein) and abolish activity.