Enzyme Action: Testing Catalase Activity (O2)
Experiment #17A from Agricultural Science with Vernier
- Subject
- Agricultural Science
Introduction
Many organisms can decompose hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) enzymatically. Enzymes are globular proteins, responsible for most of the chemical activities of living organisms. They act as catalysts, substances that speed up chemical reactions without being destroyed or altered during the process. Enzymes are extremely efficient and may be used over and over again. One enzyme may catalyze thousands of reactions every second. Both the temperature and the pH at which enzymes function are extremely important. Most organisms have a preferred temperature range in which they survive, and their enzymes typically function best within that temperature range. If the environment of the enzyme is too acidic or too basic, the enzyme may irreversibly denature, or unravel, until it no longer has the shape necessary for proper functioning.
H2O2 is toxic to most living organisms. Many organisms are capable of enzymatically breaking down the H2O2 before it can do much damage. H2O2 can be converted to oxygen and water, as follows:
Although this reaction occurs spontaneously, the enzyme catalase increases the rate considerably. Catalase is found in most living organisms.
Objectives
- Measure the production of oxygen gas as hydrogen peroxide is broken down by the enzyme catalase at various enzyme concentrations.
- Measure and compare the initial rates of reaction for this enzyme when different concentrations of enzyme react with H2O2.
- Measure the production of oxygen gas as hydrogen peroxide is broken down by the enzyme catalase or peroxidase at various temperatures.
- Measure and compare the initial rates of reaction for the enzyme at each temperature.
- Measure the production of oxygen gas as hydrogen peroxide is broken down by the enzyme catalase or peroxidase at various pH values.
- Measure and compare the initial rates of reaction for the enzyme at each pH value.
Sensors and Equipment
This experiment features the following sensors and equipment. Additional equipment may be required.
Option 1
Option 2
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This experiment is #17A of Agricultural Science with Vernier. The experiment in the book includes student instructions as well as instructor information for set up, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data.
