Enzymes lower the activation energy needed for chemical reactions to occur. This allows reactions in the body to happen more easily and faster. Each enzyme has an active site that is shaped to bind to one specific reaction. When an enzyme is involved, the reaction it catalyzes can proceed much quicker than without the enzyme present.

1. Launch Describe something that is extremely difficult for you to accomplish. Ex: taking a test or moving a couch. 1. What would make this task easier? 2. What happens to ice when you leave on the counter? 3. List two ways to speed up what happens in #2.

2. IWBAT summarize the role of enzymes in chemical reactions

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDEVBMldiY8

4. Chemical Reactions change substances into new substances.

5. Activation Energy: the amount of energy needed to start a chemical reaction

6. How much activation energy was needed to melt the ice cube? How did we change the amount of activation energy needed?

7. Enzymes (specialized proteins in our bodies) LOWER the activation energy of specific reactions. Therefore ENZYMES make it easier for chemical reactions to occur in our bodies.

9. When an enzyme is involved reactions can happen much faster.

10. Each enzyme can only help along one reaction. This depends on the shape of the active site.

11. EX. Questions What is the function of the mitochondria? Notes. Mitochondria: …… ex. …..

12. IMOW: Chemical reaction IMOW: Activation Energy Connection between enzymes, activation energy, and chemical reactions Explain how enzymes work (active site, specific)

13. Complete assignment on a separate piece of paper