Question

refer to the passage. carbonic anhydrase is found in the bloodstream of the human body. the bloodstream is usually at a temperature of 37°c. how might an increase in a persons body temperature affect the function of carbonic anhydrase and other enzymes in the body? be sure to choose the explanation of any effects on the enzyme itself and the reaction it catalyzes. the enzyme carbonic anhydrase is a protein that binds to two small molecules: water and carbon dioxide. by holding the two molecules in the proper position, the enzyme allows the two molecules to react to form a product, carbonic acid. the enzyme then releases the product and becomes available to catalyze the same reaction once again.

Explanation:

Enzymes like carbonic anhydrase have an optimal temperature for function. An increase in body - temperature can cause the enzyme's shape to change (denaturation) due to the breaking of weak bonds. This change in shape affects the active - site where substrates bind. As a result, the enzyme's ability to bind to water and carbon dioxide and catalyze the formation of carbonic acid is impaired. The reaction rate will decrease because fewer enzyme - substrate complexes can form.

Answer:

An increase in body temperature can denature carbonic anhydrase and other enzymes, changing their shape and impairing their ability to bind substrates and catalyze reactions, thus decreasing the reaction rate.