biology gcse coursework enzyme catalase reaction
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A/S level Biology Coursework
An investigation into the effect of substrate concentration on the activity of the enzyme 'Catalase` in potato tissue
Plan
Aim
The aim of this experiment is to examine how the concentration of the substrate 'Hydrogen Peroxide' affects the rate of reaction of the enzyme 'Catalase'.
Background information
Enzymes are biological catalysts made up of proteins. Enzymes such as 'catalase' are the protein molecules, which are found in living cells. The use of these molecules is to speed up specific reactions within the cells, however becomes denatured at temperatures above 45C. Enzymes are highly specific molecules, as each has its own particular reaction to carry out.
The catalase enzyme can be found in many foods, including potatoes and liver. The catalase enzyme's particular reaction purpose is to remove Hydrogen Peroxide from cells.
Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) is the poisonous by-product of metabolism. It is a colourless, syrupy liquid that is a strong oxidising agent and in cold-water solution, is a weak acid. It is miscible with cold water and is soluble in alcohol and ether...