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Multiple Choice
In enzyme kinetics, approximately how many molecules of hydrogen peroxide (H_2O_2) can a single catalase enzyme molecule decompose per second under optimal conditions?
A
About 10,000,000
B
About 100
C
About 40,000
D
About 1,000,000
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of catalase: Catalase is an enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into water (H₂O) and oxygen (O₂). It is highly efficient and operates under optimal conditions to protect cells from oxidative damage caused by H₂O₂.
Review enzyme kinetics: Enzyme efficiency is often measured by the turnover number (k_cat), which represents the number of substrate molecules converted to product per enzyme molecule per second under optimal conditions.
Recall the typical turnover number for catalase: Catalase is one of the fastest enzymes known, with a turnover number of approximately 10,000,000 molecules of H₂O₂ decomposed per second under optimal conditions.
Compare the options provided: The correct answer should align with the turnover number of catalase. Among the options, 'About 10,000,000' matches the known efficiency of catalase.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the enzyme's turnover number and the options provided, the correct answer is 'About 10,000,000,' which reflects the high catalytic efficiency of catalase under optimal conditions.