Temperature's role in enzyme kinetics

Steps:

• Recall enzyme activity depends on temperature, pH, and substrate concentration.
• Evaluate A: Enzymes have unique optimal pH, varying by type (e.g., pepsin at pH 2, trypsin at pH 8).
• Evaluate B: Reactant concentration decreases as products form in progressing reactions.
• Evaluate C and D: Temperature affects collision rates; low temps slow but don't denature, while moderate increases enhance activity.

Why C is correct:

• Collision theory states that raising temperature from 0°C to 20°C increases molecular kinetic energy, boosting effective enzyme-substrate collisions and reaction rate.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Optimal pH differs among enzymes to suit their physiological roles.
• B: Reactants are consumed, so their concentration falls during the reaction.
• D: Denaturation results from high temperatures disrupting bonds; cooling to 0°C merely slows the reaction without structural damage.

Final answer: C