Substrates

Definition

Substrates are the specific molecules upon which enzymes act to catalyze chemical reactions. They bind to the enzyme's active site, where they undergo a transformation into products.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Substrates are highly specific for their corresponding enzymes, fitting like a key in a lock.
2. The concentration of substrates can affect the rate of enzymatic reactions.
3. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for substrates to react.
4. Once substrates bind to an enzyme's active site, they form an enzyme-substrate complex.
5. After the reaction, substrates are converted into products and released from the active site.

Review Questions

• What role do substrates play in enzymatic reactions?
• How does substrate concentration influence enzyme activity?
• Describe what happens when a substrate binds to an enzyme’s active site.

Related terms

Enzyme: A protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Active Site: The region on an enzyme where substrate molecules bind and undergo a chemical reaction.

Product: The molecules resulting from the conversion of substrates after an enzymatic reaction.