Enzymes usually function best at an optimal pH and temperature. The following graph shows the effectiveness of two enzymes at various temperatures. (a) At which temperature does enzyme A perform best? Enzyme B?

Enzyme activity refers to the rate at which an enzyme catalyzes a reaction. This activity is influenced by various factors, including temperature and pH. Each enzyme has an optimal temperature range where it functions most effectively, leading to the highest reaction rates. Deviations from this optimal range can result in decreased activity or denaturation.

The optimal temperature is the specific temperature at which an enzyme exhibits maximum activity. For many enzymes, this is typically around human body temperature (37°C), but it can vary significantly among different enzymes. In the provided graph, the peaks indicate the optimal temperatures for enzymes A and B, where their reaction rates are highest.

Denaturation is the process by which an enzyme loses its functional shape due to extreme conditions, such as high temperatures. When enzymes are exposed to temperatures beyond their optimal range, their structure can change, leading to a loss of activity. Understanding denaturation is crucial for interpreting the effectiveness of enzymes at varying temperatures, as shown in the graph.