What happens to enzyme activity when temperature rises significantly above its optimum?
A
Activity slows gradually then speeds up
B
Activity remains constant
C
Enzyme is denatured and loses activity
D
Enzyme replicates to compensate
Correct Answer: Option C — Enzyme is denatured and loses activity
Explanation:
When temperature rises significantly above the optimum the enzyme is denatured meaning the active site changes shape so the substrate can no longer bind and activity is permanently lost.