[Campbell Biology P.204] According to the text, what is the 'active site' of an enzyme, and ... | Practice Question
According to the text, what is the 'active site' of an enzyme, and what is its role?
A: It is the region of the enzyme that provides structural support but does not directly participate in catalysis.
B: It is the entire enzyme molecule that changes shape dramatically to engulf any molecule.
C: It is a restricted pocket or groove on the enzyme surface where the substrate binds and catalysis occurs, with its shape determining enzyme specificity.
D: It is the product formed after the enzyme has completed its catalytic action on the substrate.
Explanation
The text defines the active site as a 'restricted region of the enzyme molecule' typically a 'pocket or groove on the surface of the enzyme where catalysis occurs'. It also states that 'the specificity of an enzyme is attributed to a complementary fit between the shape of its active site and the shape of the substrate.'