Enzyme Kinetics: Experiments with Catalase
Description: Catalase from potato extract decomposes hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen. The gas is trapped, and the amount produced is used to determine the reaction rate. The reaction rate depends on temperature. Copper (II) ion inhibits the the catalysis by replacing iron (II) in the catalase active site.
Source: Summerlin, Lee R., Ealy, J. L., Chemical Demonstrations: A Sourcebook for Teachers; 2nd Edition
Year: 1985 Vol: 2 Page: 152
Keywords: Potato extract, Catalase, Hydrogen Peroxide, Water, Oxygen, Copper (II), Iron (II)
Rating: 
Hazard: Low
- Eye irritation
- Skin irritation
- Aquatic toxicity hazard
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable with guidance
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Time to results is high
Difficulty: Medium
- Use of laboratory equipment
- Some concerted or timed manipulations
- Procedures with some intermediate steps to result
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Absorbent material on hand
- Prevent release of reagents to the environment
Class: Biochemistry, Kinetics
Division: General, Biological Chemistry
Home| General Chemistry Demonstrations| Biological Chemistry Demonstrations