Question
Biology Question on Biomolecules
The catalytic efficiency of two different enzymes can be compared by the:
A
the Km value
B
the pH optimum value
C
formation of the product
D
molecular size of the enzyme
Answer
the Km value
Explanation
Solution
The Km value, also known as the Michaelis-Menten constant, is a measure of the substrate concentration at which an enzyme reaches half of its maximum catalytic activity. Lower Km values indicate higher affinity of the enzyme for the substrate and, often, greater catalytic efficiency. Therefore, comparing the Km values of two enzymes can provide insights into their relative catalytic efficiencies.
So, the correct option is (A): the Km value