500
Catalase is an enzyme that protects cells from damage by helping convert the toxin hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2). A student is investigating how different pH values and different temperatures affect catalase activity. The table below shows the student’s data.
Explain why temperature affects catalase activity.
Catalase is an enzyme, which means it is also a protein. Proteins don't work when it's too cold because it will freeze. They also don't work when it's too hot because they will denature, so they no longer function. The temperature needs to be just right for enzyme activity to be at it's peak.