CAIE A Level Biology 9700 · Enzymes
A student investigated the effect of temperature on the rate of an enzyme-catalysed reaction. The enzyme was isolated from a mesophilic bacterium and the substrate concentration was kept in excess. The initial rate of reaction was measured at different temperatures. The results are shown in the table below.
| Temperature (°C) | Initial rate (µmol product min⁻¹ mg⁻¹ enzyme) |
|---|---|
| 10 | 0.2 |
| 20 | 0.5 |
| 30 | 0.8 |
| 40 | 1.0 |
| 50 | 0.6 |
| 60 | 0.1 |
Explain the pattern in the data.
4 marks, so the mark scheme is looking for about 4 separate creditworthy points. Making the same point twice in different words earns it once.
Explain means: Give the reasons or the mechanism: why or how something happens. Link each point to the next with because, so or which means. A list of facts with no links usually loses the reasoning marks.
Written by Markquill to follow the Cambridge International syllabus. Markquill is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge International.