Question 1

What are enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes are special proteins in our bodies that help speed up chemical reactions, like breaking down food into energy. They're like tiny helpers that keep our body working smoothly.

Question 2

Why do we need enzymes?

Accepted Answer

We need enzymes because they help our body do important jobs faster, like digesting food and turning it into energy. Without them, processes in our body would take too long.

Question 3

How do enzymes work?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes work by attaching to molecules and breaking them apart or joining them together. They have special shapes that fit the molecules they work with, kind of like a lock and key.

Question 4

Where can we find enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes are found all over the body, especially in places where chemical reactions happen, like the stomach and saliva. They also exist in other living things, like plants and animals.

Question 5

Can enzymes be used up?

Accepted Answer

No, enzymes are not used up when they help a reaction. They can keep working over and over again, like a favorite toy that never wears out.

Question 6

Do all enzymes do the same thing?

Accepted Answer

No, different enzymes have different jobs. Each enzyme is designed to help with one specific reaction or type of molecule, just like how a spoon is used to eat soup and not to cut bread.

Question 7

What happens if enzymes don't work properly?

Accepted Answer

If enzymes don't work properly, our body has trouble performing certain functions, like digesting food or repairing cells. It's like trying to fix a car with the wrong tools.

Question 8

Are enzymes alive?

Accepted Answer

No, enzymes are not alive. They are molecules made by living cells to help make things happen faster, just like how a calculator helps us do math faster.

Question 9

What is an example of an enzyme in our body?

Accepted Answer

An example of an enzyme in our body is amylase, which is found in saliva and helps break down starchy foods into sugar. It helps start digestion right in our mouth.

Question 10

Can we find enzymes in food?

Accepted Answer

Yes, enzymes are found in many foods, especially in fresh fruits and vegetables. They help the food break down into nutrients we can use.

Question 11

Do enzymes only work in humans?

Accepted Answer

No, enzymes work in all living things, not just humans. Plants, animals, and even tiny bacteria have enzymes to help them survive and grow.

Question 12

How do scientists study enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Scientists study enzymes by observing how they react with different molecules and by looking at their shapes. They can also create models to see how enzymes work up close.

Question 13

Can enzymes be stopped from working?

Accepted Answer

Yes, enzymes can be stopped by changes in temperature or pH levels. If the conditions are not right, they won't be able to do their job well.

Question 14

What is the 'active site' of an enzyme?

Accepted Answer

An active site is a special area on the enzyme where the molecule fits in. It's like a little pocket that holds the molecule tightly during the reaction.

Question 15

How do enzymes help in cooking?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes in yeast help bread rise, and other enzymes help ripen fruits. They make changes that create tasty and better-textured food.

Question 16

Are enzymes in cleaning products?

Accepted Answer

Yes, enzymes in cleaning products help break down stains and dirt. They make the cleaning process faster and more effective.

Question 17

Do enzymes have different shapes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, enzymes have different shapes that match the molecules they work with. Their shapes are important for them to fit and work correctly.

Question 18

Can we live without enzymes?

Accepted Answer

No, we cannot live without enzymes because they are essential for all the chemical reactions in our body. Without them, our body would not function properly.

Question 19

Do enzymes work better in warm or cold temperatures?

Accepted Answer

Enzymes usually work better in warm temperatures, but if it gets too hot, they can stop working. It's like how ice cream melts when it's too hot but stays solid when it's just the right cool temperature.

Question 20

Can we make enzymes in a lab?

Accepted Answer

Yes, scientists can create enzymes in lab settings to help with research and medicine. These lab-made enzymes work just like the natural ones.

The Mechanics of Enzyme Function - 20 FAQs Explained Simply