🎓 IB Exam Prep

An enzyme's activity is observed to decrease significantly when the pH is lowered from 7 to 2. What is the most likely reason for this decrease?

A Increased substrate concentration
B Denaturation of the enzyme
C Formation of more enzyme-substrate complexes
D Increased kinetic energy of molecules

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Extreme pH values alter the enzyme's active site structure, causing it to lose its specific shape and function, a process known as denaturation, which reduces activity.

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