Apentix/AP Biology/Unit 1: Chemistry of Life/Question
AP Biologymediummcq1 pt

For an enzyme with a particular pH optimum, why can activity decline when the surrounding pH moves far from that optimum?

A.Gain or loss of protons by charged side chains distorts the active site's shape and attractions
B.Extreme pH raises substrate concentration until binding sites saturate and stop
C.Acids and bases dissolve the peptide backbone into small fragments
D.pH converts the protein into a nucleic acid that cannot catalyze

Explanation

Core Concept

Changing pH changes the protonation state and charge of amino acid side chains. That can disrupt substrate binding, catalytic chemistry, or interactions that stabilize the active conformation. Modest changes may be reversible, whereas sufficiently extreme pH can cause more persistent unfolding or denaturation.

Correct Answer

AGain or loss of protons by charged side chains distorts the active site's shape and attractions

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