The factors that affect an enzyme's ability to catalyze reactions include:
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pH - Enzymes have an optimal pH range in which they function most effectively. Deviations from this range can lead to decreased activity or denaturation of the enzyme.
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Temperature - Enzymes also have an optimal temperature for activity. Increased temperatures can enhance reaction rates to a point, but excessive heat can denature the enzyme, rendering it inactive.
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Concentration of substrates (not listed) - While not in your list, the concentration of substrates is also a critical factor, as higher concentrations can increase the rate of reaction until saturation is reached.
The other options provided:
- Polio and folic acid do not directly affect an enzyme's catalytic ability in general terms. Polio is a virus, and while folic acid is a vitamin that plays a role in various biological processes, it is not a direct factor influencing enzyme activity.
In summary, the key factors from your list that affect enzyme activity are pH and temperature.