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Figure 7 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
Figure 7 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels. (i) Describe the trend in the graph for the enzyme trypsin. Use data from the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 7 shows the activity of the enzymes pepsin and trypsin at different pH levels - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the trend in the graph for the enzyme trypsin.
Answer
The graph shows that trypsin activity increases as the pH rises from 1 to around 8, where it reaches its peak activity. After this point, as the pH continues to rise towards 10, the enzyme activity declines. This indicates that trypsin is most active between pH 7 and 8, demonstrating its preference for a neutral to slightly alkaline environment.
Step 2
Step 3
Describe the conditions in the stomach that allow pepsin to work effectively.
Answer
In the stomach, pepsin works effectively because the environment is highly acidic, with a pH of around 1.5 to 3. This acidic condition helps to maintain its active form, allowing it to digest proteins efficiently. Additionally, the presence of gastric juices further enhances its activity.
Step 4
Step 5