CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Enzymes
A biotechnology company produces a valuable chemical using an enzyme-catalysed reaction. The enzyme is inhibited by its own product, which accumulates and reduces the reaction rate. To overcome this, the enzyme is immobilised in alginate beads and used in a continuous-flow bioreactor.
Describe the advantages of using the immobilised enzyme in this system compared to using the free enzyme in a batch reactor.
6 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 6 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Describe means: Say what happens or what something is like, in order and with detail. You are not being asked why. If there is data, quote it: name the trend, then give figures with units at the points where it changes.
Written by Markquill to follow the Cambridge International syllabus. Markquill is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.