AP Success - AP Biology Conceptual Analysis: Systems Interact - Enzymes

In a recent experiment, researchers studied the effect of temperature on the activity of the enzyme lactase. Lactase is responsible for breaking down lactose, a sugar found in milk, into glucose and galactose. The researchers observed that the rate of lactose breakdown increased as the temperature increased from 20°C to 40°C. However, beyond 40°C, the rate of lactose breakdown decreased.

Describe how enzymes, like lactase, interact with their substrates to facilitate chemical reactions.

Based on the researchers' observations, explain how temperature affects the activity of the enzyme lactase.

If the experiment were to be repeated at a pH of 3 instead of the normal pH of 7, predict how this might affect the activity of lactase.

The researchers claim that the decrease in lactase activity beyond 40°C is due to the denaturation of the enzyme. Justify this claim.