Explain the effect of an increase in temperature on enzymatic activity

All enzymes have an optimum temperature, at which rate of reaction/catalysis is fastest. Any deviation from the optimum temperature will slow down rate of reaction.

Like most chemical reactions, an increase in temperature will increase the rate of reaction. However, enzymes are proteins and have the ability to be denatured above a certain temperature. At this point, the enzyme loses its catalytic properties and rate of reaction will decrease rapidly.

The relationship between temperature change and rate of enzyme activity is best demonstrated with this graph; commonly reffered to as 'the bell curve'.

CT
Answered by Charlie T. Biology tutor

5707 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe how a sperm cell is adapted to its role


What are the main differences in composition of blood taken from an artery to blood taken from a vein?


Explain how ciliary muscles and elastic fibres change the shape of lens to a distant object


What factors influence the rate of photosynthesis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning