Investigating how changing the concentration effects the rate of the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and catalase from a potato.

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Investigating how changing the concentration effects the rate of the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and catalase from a potato

Planning

Introduction

The enzyme catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide is a highly active chemical, often used in bleach or for cleaning minor wounds. It is also formed continually as a byproduct of chemical reactions in a living cell. It is toxic and if the cells did not immediately break it down it would destroy them. Hence the importance of the enzyme. It is in fact the fastest enzymes known. The enzyme is able to speed up the decomposition of Hydrogen peroxide because the shape of its active site matches the shape of the Hydrogen peroxide molecule. This type of reaction where a molecule is broken down into smaller pieces is called an Anabolic Reaction.

Catalase

Hydrogen Peroxide Water + Oxygen

2H2O2 2H2O + O2

In this investigation I will be able to watch the action of catalase in a test tube and compare it with an inorganic catalyst that causes the same reaction.

Variables

To ensure this experiment is completed