Why does the enzyme pepsin (present in the stomach) denature in the intestine?

The enzyme denatures due to change in temperature as it enters the intestine.

The enzyme denatures due to the alkaline environment of the intestine.

The enzyme denatures due to lack of substrate molecules in the intestine.

Question

Biology

Wendy Schaefer

10 February, 19:17

Why does the enzyme pepsin (present in the stomach) denature in the intestine?

The enzyme denatures due to change in temperature as it enters the intestine.

The enzyme denatures due to the alkaline environment of the intestine.

The enzyme denatures due to lack of substrate molecules in the intestine.

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Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Celia Ingram · Answer 1

I think the correct answer from the choices listed above is the second option. The enzyme pepsin that is present in the stomach denature in the intestine due to the alkaline environment of the intestine. This is because pepsin has an optimum pH that is very low which is ideal for the acidic conditions of the stomach.

Why does the enzyme pepsin (present in the stomach) denature in the intestine?The enzyme denatures due to change in temperature as it enters the intestine.The enzyme denatures due to the alkaline environment of the intestine.The enzyme denatures due to lack of substrate molecules in the intestine.