The Effect of Temperature on the Enzyme Catalase

Abstract The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of temperature on the enzyme catalase. The original research question was exploring the effect temperature would have on a yeast catalase reacting with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). To address the latter question a series of experiments were conducted. The various temperatures experimented with were as follows: 22 degrees Celsius (room temperature), 0 degrees Celsius (freezing), 100 degrees Celsius (boiling), and 37 degrees Celsius. Along with variations in temperature, the experiment involved different amounts of the two solutions being used. Using a spot plate containing 12 wells the different mixtures of hydrogen peroxide and water were as follows: 40 drops of pure hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), 20 drops of tap water and 20 drops of hydrogen peroxide, and 10 drops of hydrogen peroxide and 30 drops of tap water. The results after all experiments combined can be summarized. The reaction between hydrogen peroxide and yeast catalase increases as the temperature increases. This experiment proved to be an effective way of meeting the aim because it left room for several readings along with room for simple changes.
Key Words
1. Catalase: The enzyme catalase is produced to decompose hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen gas. (H2O2 + Catalase = O2 = H2O)
2. Enzyme: A type of protein that catalyzes (speeds) a chemical reaction.
3. Qualitative data: In other words “physical” data. Example: “The yeast suspension looks cloudy and cream-colored.”
4. Quantitative data: In other words “numerical” data. Example: “It took the disc 10 seconds to rise from the bottom of a well.”
Introduction
An enzyme is a protein that speeds up chemical reactions in all living things. Without enzymes, these reactions could occur too slowly or not at all meaning no life would be possible. Enzyme molecules function by altering other molecules. Enzymes combined with the altered