QUESTION 23 'Biological' washing powders contain enzymes which are obtained from the bacteriu Bacillus subtilus. These enzymes are unusual in having an optimum temperature of 23.1 What is meant by each of the following terms: 23.1.1 optimum temperature 23.1.2 catalyst 23.2 Explain why it is unusual for an enzyme to have an optimum temperature of \( 60^{\circ} \) 23.3 State TWO other characteristics of enzymes that are not mentioned above.

Optimum temperature refers to the specific temperature at which an enzyme's activity is maximized. At this temperature, the enzyme operates most efficiently, facilitating reactions at the highest rate. Beyond this point, activity may decline as enzyme structures can become denatured, leading to a loss of function. Having an enzyme with an optimum temperature of \( 60^{\circ} \) is unusual because most enzymes in living organisms operate at much lower temperatures, typically around human body temperature (\( 37^{\circ} \)). Enzymes that function well at higher temperatures are often found in extremophiles, such as thermophilic bacteria, which thrive in hot environments like hot springs. This adaptation allows them to maintain stability and activity under extreme conditions, a rarity for most biological enzymes.