Q. 16.7 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Why do enzymes function only under mild conditions? $(16.4,16.5)$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

• The enzyme can only function  under mild conditions.

Step 1: Introduction Enzymes need temperature to function

1. Generally, catalysts require high temperature and high pressure. 
2. Enzymes are biological catalysts that work only under physiological conditions: $\mathrm{pH}7.4$ and $37°\mathrm{C}$. 
3. Enzymes catalyze  biological activity by lowering the activation energy.  

Step 2: Explanation The enzyme can only function under mild conditions.

1. Most  enzymes are globular proteins. 
2. At high temperatures, the tertiary structure is distorted and inoperable. 
3. At  pH above or below the optimum pH, the structure of the enzyme changes and the active site is destroyed. 
4. Therefore, the enzyme can only function  under mild conditions.