2.5 Enzymes


 
Enzyme function
Enzymes are biological catalysts. They speed up chemical reactions and are not used up in the process.


 
Factors influencing enzyme activity
Enzyme activity is influenced by substrate concentration, temperature and pH.


 
Production of lactose-free milk
By adding the enzyme lactase, milk is made lactose-free. The enzyme breaks down lactose (milk sugar) to glucose and galactose.


 
Immobilized enzymes
Immobilized enzymes are often commercially used, because they have a variety of advantages. These enzymes are not soluble, but they are bound to a surface (hence immobilized)