Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

How do environmental factors affect enzymes?

1. They cannot affect enzymes

2. They always denature enzymes

3. They can affect the activity of enzymes

4. They turn enzymes into carbohydrates

The correct answer is: They can affect the activity of enzymes

Environmental factors play a crucial role in the functioning of enzymes, which are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in cells. Factors such as temperature, pH levels, substrate concentration, and the presence of inhibitors or activators can influence enzyme activity. When environmental conditions change, they can impact the shape and efficiency of an enzyme. For example, an increase in temperature may enhance enzyme activity up to a certain point, but if the temperature becomes too high, the enzyme may denature—losing its functional shape. Similarly, pH levels can affect the charge and solubility of both the enzyme and its substrate, further influencing their interaction. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the idea that enzymes are sensitive to their surroundings, and variations in environmental conditions can increase, decrease, or modify their activity. This understanding is essential in fields such as biochemistry and biotechnology, where enzyme function is critical.