Explain how temperature affects how enzymes work

Definition of enzymes: Biological catalysts that speed up the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy , with no effect on equilibrium. They are proteins that have a specific shape . For the enzyme to work the substrate fits into a region of the enzyme called the ACTIVE SIGHT, the enzyme will then break down the substrate into smaller peaces. This is known as LOCK&KEY theory. The shape of the active sight is specific to one or a few substrates. Effect of Temperature :Enzymes are temperature sensitive. As the substrate gains kinetic energy (from the thermal energy) As the temp increases there is an increase in the rate of reaction/ product. This increase is due to a change in: frequency of collisions between enzyme and substrate, collision at right orientation, successful collisions. Above a certain temperature (above the optimum point ~37 degrees) the high temp breaks the Hydrogen bonds in the active sight, changing the shape of the enzyme, so it can no longer bind to its substrate . The reaction slows and stops. The enzyme no longer works, this is known as DENATURING. Each enzyme has an optimum temperature at which it works best.