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.

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### 23.1 Definitions

#### 23.1.1 Optimum Temperature
The **optimum temperature** of an enzyme is the temperature at which the enzyme exhibits the highest activity or efficiency in catalyzing a biochemical reaction. At this temperature, the enzyme's structure is most favorable for binding to its substrate, leading to the maximum rate of reaction. Deviations from this temperature can result in decreased activity or denaturation of the enzyme.

#### 23.1.2 Catalyst
A **catalyst** is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. Catalysts work by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur, allowing the reaction to proceed more quickly. Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate biochemical reactions in living organisms.

### 23.2 Explanation of Unusual Optimum Temperature of $$ 60^{\circ} $$
It is unusual for an enzyme to have an optimum temperature of $$ 60^{\circ} $$ because most enzymes in living organisms function optimally at much lower temperatures, typically around $$ 37^{\circ} $$ (the normal body temperature of humans). Enzymes that operate at higher temperatures, such as $$ 60^{\circ} $$, are often derived from extremophiles, organisms that thrive in extreme conditions.

At elevated temperatures, enzymes can become denatured, losing their functional shape and activity. Therefore, an enzyme with an optimum temperature of $$ 60^{\circ} $$ suggests that it is adapted to high-temperature environments, which is not typical for most biological systems.

### 23.3 Other Characteristics of Enzymes
1. **Specificity**: Enzymes are highly specific for their substrates, meaning that each enzyme typically catalyzes only one type of reaction or acts on a specific substrate. This specificity is due to the unique shape and chemical properties of the enzyme's active site.

2. **Reusability**: Enzymes can be used repeatedly in biochemical reactions. After catalyzing a reaction, they are not consumed or permanently altered, allowing them to participate in multiple reaction cycles.

These characteristics highlight the unique and essential roles that enzymes play in biological processes.
**Definitions:** - **Optimum Temperature**: The temperature at which an enzyme works best. - **Catalyst**: A substance that speeds up chemical reactions without being used up. **Explanation:** Enzymes usually work best at lower temperatures, like body temperature. An enzyme that works best at $$60^{\circ}$$ is unusual because it's not typical for most living things. **Other Enzyme Characteristics:** 1. **Specificity**: Enzymes only work on specific substances. 2. **Reusability**: Enzymes can be used over and over again in reactions.

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