Chemical Reactions and Enzymes
Chemical Reactions
Have you ever tried to fall asleep at night, but had too many thoughts racing through your mind? Your brain is not the only active part of your body as you lie there trying to sleep. Your cells are dividing, your food is digesting, and the cut on your big toe is beginning to heal. As you lie there, these and many other chemical reactions are taking place. Explore some biochemical reactions in this interactivity. Click the player button to begin.
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Enzymes
Enzymes are proteins that are made for specific reactions. The reactants in the chemical reaction that bind to an enzyme are called substrates. In this interactivity, learn more about the important role that enzymes play in living systems.
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Enzymes work best within specific temperature and pH ranges. In humans, enzymes that are found in the stomach work best at an acidic pH, while enzymes that are active in the blood would function best at the more neutral pH. Enzymes in human cells function best at a temperature close to 37° C, while enzymes in other organisms can work at other temperatures.
Some scientists are working to use enzymes to save lives - even at lunch time. Take a few moments to view the video The Peanut Solution from eMediaVASM. As you view the video, take note of which of the macromolecules you have studied cause the peanut allergen.
Chemical Reactions Review
Now that you have learned about chemical reactions and the role that enzymes play, review your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Drag each of the terms and drop it into the appropriate blank on the concept map. Then, click SUBMIT to check your responses and view a complete map. Click the player button to get started.