Observe how much oxygen is given off, when we change the concentration of catalase in potato discs, during the reaction with hydrogen peroxide.

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Catalase Investigation

In this investigation we wanted to observe how much oxygen is given off, when we change the concentration of catalase in potato discs, during the reaction with hydrogen peroxide.

Related knowledge about catalase

  • The temperature and pH affect catalase activity
  • It works best at the pH 7 – and room temperature
  • Catalase becomes denatured if subjected to high temperature or pH other than 7
  • Affects active site shape activity

Apparatus

  • Scalpel
  • Ruler
  • White tile
  • Tweezers
  • Test tube with side arm and tubing
  • Delivery tube
  • Retort stand
  • Bung
  • Water bath
  • Potato Cylinders
  • 20% Hydrogen peroxide
  • 2 measuring cylinders
  • Stop clock
  • Bucket for waste
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Prediction

My prediction is that the greater the catalase concentration, the more oxygen will be collected over 5 minutes.  The more pieces of potato you put in (or the higher the surface area) the bigger the result will be.

Link to theory – More Catalase means more active site, this means more opportunity for hydrogen peroxide to be broken down, this means more oxygen.

Method

  1. Set up apparatus (shown in diagram)
  2. Cut Potato chip in to 1mm discs with scalpel
  3. Measure out 10ml of hydrogen peroxide and add to a test tube with side arm
  4. Quickly, ...

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