Question

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. 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 explain any effects on the enzyme itself and the reaction that it catalyzes.

Explanation:

Enzymes like carbonic anhydrase have an optimal temperature for function. A slight increase in body - temperature might initially increase the reaction rate as it provides more kinetic energy. But if the temperature gets too high (above the optimal range), the enzyme's structure (tertiary and quaternary structure) can be disrupted through denaturation. Denaturation changes the active - site shape, preventing the substrate (water and carbon dioxide in this case) from binding properly, thus decreasing the catalytic activity of the enzyme.

Answer:

A slight increase might initially speed up the reaction due to increased kinetic energy, but a significant increase can cause enzyme denaturation, altering its active - site and decreasing its catalytic function.