Chapter 7.3, Problem 2MI

Summary Introduction

To define:

The given word “enzyme” using the book or dictionary

Introduction:

Eukaryotic cells contain organelles that allow the specialization and separation of functions within the cell. The plasma membrane functions as a boundary between the inside and outside environments. Inside the plasma membrane is a semi fluid material called cytoplasm where all the chemical processes of the cell take place inside the cell organelles.

Answer to Problem 2MI

An enzyme is a protein that speeds up the rate of a chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

In a prokaryotic cell the chemical processes occur directly in the cytoplasm whereas in a eukaryotic cell they occur within cell organelles in the cytoplasm. Organelles carry out essential cell processes such as protein synthesis, energy transformation, digestion of food, excretion of wastes and cell division. Each organelle has a unique structure and function.

In chemistry laboratories, catalysts are used to speed up chemical reactions. They do not get used up in the reactions. There are many types of catalysts that are used by scientists to speed up reactions. In a cell also there are certain substances that function as catalysts. These are called enzymes. Enzymes are bio catalysts that speed up the rate of chemical reaction in biological processes. They are very important to life. Enzymes are also not used up in the reactions so they can be used again.

When an enzyme acts as a biological catalyst, the reaction occurs at a rate that is useful to cells. Many biological processes like digestion, photosynthesis, respiration and excretion occur in the presence of enzymes.