Biochemistry : Covalent Bonds

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Biochemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Covalent Bonds

Which of the following types of bonding or interactions does not usually characterize the interactions which occur between an enzyme's active site and its substrate?

Possible Answers:

Covalent bonding

Van der Waals interactions

Hydrophobic interactions

Hydrogen bonding

All of these bond types are exhibited in enzyme-substrate binding.

Correct answer:

Covalent bonding

Explanation:

Covalent bonding is too strong to allow for the enzyme to subsequently release the substrate or product (depending on if the initial substrate or eventual product does the covalent bonding). Thus, it permanently inhibits the enzyme active site and prevents it from continuing its activity. All of the other interactions are much weaker and allow the enzyme to release the product. They are all ways in which active sites interact with their substrates. 

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