Question

enzyme function by progress learning salivary amylase is an enzyme found in the mouth. it breaks down starch into sugars. which of these best explains why salivary amylase does not break down proteins? a the enzyme is the wrong substrate for proteins. proteins will not fit into the active site of the amylase enzyme. b only sugars have the correct shape to activate the enzyme. c proteins do not have the proper active site for the enzyme to work on them. d enzymes, such as the one shown in the picture, work by fitting onto the substrate molecule. enzyme function by progress learning

Explanation:

Enzymes are specific in their action and work based on the lock - and - key model where the substrate must fit into the active site of the enzyme. Salivary amylase has an active site that is complementary to starch molecules, not protein molecules. Proteins will not fit into the active site of salivary amylase as they have a different shape.

Answer:

A. The enzyme is the wrong substrate for proteins. Proteins will not fit into the active site of the amylase enzyme.