Which of the following statements is true regarding substrates and enzymes at low temperatures?

Prepare for the Mississippi State Biology 1 Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to help you get ready for your exam!

At low temperatures, the kinetic energy of molecules decreases, which results in slower movement. As a consequence, the frequency and energy of collisions between enzymes and substrates diminish. Enzymes are biological catalysts that rely on these interactions to facilitate biochemical reactions. When the molecules move slowly, there are fewer collisions between enzymes and substrates, which leads to a decrease in the likelihood of enzyme-substrate complexes forming.

This directly affects the overall reaction rates, making it less favorable for enzymes to catalyze reactions efficiently. The slowed molecular motion is significant in the context of enzyme activity, particularly because enzymes operate optimally within a specific temperature range. If temperatures drop too much, their ability to catalyze reactions declines markedly.

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