What happens to enzyme activity when temperature is too high?

When the temperature rises beyond the optimal range for enzyme activity, the enzyme can undergo a process known as denaturation. This involves the unfolding of the enzyme's three-dimensional structure, which is crucial for its function. Enzymes are proteins, and their activity is largely dependent on their shape. The specific arrangement of amino acids allows the enzyme to bind to its substrate effectively.

As the temperature exceeds a certain threshold, the increased kinetic energy can disrupt the bonds that maintain the enzyme's structure, altering its conformation. Once denatured, the enzyme's active site may no longer fit the substrate, leading to a decrease in enzyme activity. In some cases, the enzyme could become completely inactive if the structural changes are significant.

This behavior illustrates the importance of temperature in biochemical reactions, as each enzyme has an ideal working temperature, typically around 30 to 40 degrees Celsius for many, although this can vary based on the enzyme's origin and function.