Cell Biology: Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the cell. Students will demonstrate that enzymes have conditions where they function optimally, and that they can be denatured.

Lab Summary:

Explore some of the factors that influence the rate of enzyme activity in an organism, such as temperature and pH.

Download free labs:

(student versions)

Xplorer GLX-based lab (PDF. 964 KB)

Computer-based lab (PDF, 508 KB)

Method:

Use an Oxygen Gas Sensor to measure the production of oxygen gas when catalase reacts with hydrogen peroxide under different conditions.

Here's What You Need:

Required for Xplorer GLX-based lab:

(See lab download for computer-based lab requirements, which may differ)

Probeware

• PASPORT Oxygen Gas Sensor (PS-2126)
• Xplorer GLX Graphing Datalogger (PS-2002)
  (or alternate PASPORT interface -- see other options)

Other Materials

• OHAUS Triple Beam Balance w/o Tare (SE-8723)
• Beaker, (2) 1000 mL (6 pack) (SE-7288)
• Graduated Cylinder, 50 mL (12 pack) (SE-7289)
• Hot Plate (SE-8767)
• Magnetic Stirrer and Stir Bar
• Test tube
• Tongs
• Chicken Liver Extract, 12 mL
• Hydrochloric Acid, 1 molar, 10 mL
• Hydrogen Peroxide, 3%, 100 mL
• Ice, crushed or cube, 0.5 L
• Sodium Fluoride, solid, 1 g
• Sodium Hydroxide, 1 molar, 10 mL
• Water, 0.5 L
• Water, Distilled, 0.5 L
• Weighing paper

Lab Manual:

The computer-based activity is included in Explorations in Biology (PS-2807). The Xplorer GLX-based lab is included in Biology with the Xplorer GLX (PS-2820). Both manuals are complete with Teacher Information pages, student instructions and handouts, and sample data.

For your convenience, we offer bundles which provide the probeware for the activities in the manual. For more, please see:
Computer-based Biology Lab Manual and Bundles
Xplorer GLX-based Biology Lab Manual and Bundles