Factors affecting Enzyme Activity

 Temperature
As the temperature increases, the rate of reaction of enzyme also increases. But very high
temperatures denature enzymes.

 pH
Different enzymes work best at different pH values. The optimum pH for an enzyme depends on
where it normally works.

 Other factors:
a) Metal/ Salt Concentration – each enzyme has an optimal salt concentration.
b) Concentration of the Substrate – As the concentration increases, the enzyme reaction rate
increases.
c) Concentration of Enzyme – increasing enzyme concentration will increase the enzyme reaction
rate.
d) Steric Hindrance – because of the “separation” or spacing, the substrate is very difficult to bond
with the enzyme in the active site.