Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best describes the Michaelis-Menten constant ($K_m$)?
A
$K_m$ is the maximum velocity achieved by the enzyme-catalyzed reaction.
B
$K_m$ is the substrate concentration at which the reaction velocity is half of $V_{max}$.
C
$K_m$ is the concentration of enzyme required to reach $V_{max}$.
D
$K_m$ is the rate constant for the formation of the enzyme-substrate complex.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of the Michaelis-Menten constant ($K_m$). It is a key parameter in enzyme kinetics that provides insight into the enzyme's affinity for its substrate. Specifically, $K_m$ is defined as the substrate concentration at which the reaction velocity is half of the maximum velocity ($V_{max}$).
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The first option states that $K_m$ is the maximum velocity achieved by the enzyme-catalyzed reaction. This is incorrect because $K_m$ is not related to $V_{max}$ directly; $V_{max}$ is the maximum reaction rate, while $K_m$ is a measure of substrate concentration.
Step 3: Evaluate the second option, which states that $K_m$ is the substrate concentration at which the reaction velocity is half of $V_{max}$. This aligns with the definition of $K_m$ in enzyme kinetics and is the correct description.
Step 4: Consider the third option, which claims that $K_m$ is the concentration of enzyme required to reach $V_{max}$. This is incorrect because $K_m$ is related to substrate concentration, not enzyme concentration.
Step 5: Review the fourth option, which suggests that $K_m$ is the rate constant for the formation of the enzyme-substrate complex. This is also incorrect because $K_m$ is not a rate constant; it is a substrate concentration value that reflects the enzyme's affinity for its substrate.