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Multiple Choice
How is the interaction between a substrate and its enzyme similar to a lock and its key?
A
The enzyme changes its shape to fit any substrate, similar to a lock that adapts to any key.
B
The substrate fits precisely into the enzyme's active site, much like a key fits into a specific lock.
C
The substrate and enzyme bind randomly without any specificity, like a key that fits all locks.
D
The enzyme permanently binds to the substrate, just as a key becomes stuck in a lock.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of enzyme-substrate specificity: Enzymes are highly specific biological catalysts that bind to substrates at their active sites. This specificity is often compared to a 'lock and key' model, where the enzyme (lock) has a specific shape that matches the substrate (key).
Clarify the 'lock and key' analogy: The substrate fits precisely into the enzyme's active site, much like a key fits into a specific lock. This analogy emphasizes the importance of structural complementarity between the enzyme and substrate.
Distinguish this from other incorrect statements: The enzyme does not change its shape to fit any substrate (this would describe the 'induced fit' model, which is a different concept). Additionally, enzymes do not bind randomly or permanently to substrates; their binding is highly specific and reversible.
Relate this to enzyme function: The precise fit between the enzyme and substrate ensures that the enzyme can catalyze the reaction efficiently. This specificity is crucial for the enzyme's role in regulating biochemical pathways.
Summarize the correct answer: The correct explanation is that the substrate fits precisely into the enzyme's active site, much like a key fits into a specific lock. This highlights the specificity and structural complementarity of enzyme-substrate interactions.