ADVERTISEMENTS:
In this article we will discuss about the similarities and dissimilarities between inorganic catalysts and enzymes.
Similarities between Inorganic Catalysts and Enzymes:
1. Inorganic catalysts and enzymes remain unchanged after reaction, chemically and quantitatively and can be used over and over again.
2. Both are required in minute quantities compared to the substrate.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
ADVERTISEMENTS:
3. They do not alter the equilibrium of a reversible reaction.
4. They do not initiate a reaction, but only enhance its rate by lowering the activation energy.
5. They form short-lived complexes with the reactants.
Dissimilarities between Inorganic Catalysts and Enzymes:
Inorganic Catalysts:
ADVERTISEMENTS:
1. Small molecules or simple mineral ions.
2. Can catalyse diverse reactions.
3. Not regulated by any regulator molecules.
4. They are less sensitive to temperature and pH.
Enzymes:
1. Proteins with complex three-dimensional structure.
2. Catalyse only specific reactions of a single or only a few substrates.
3. Can be regulated by specific molecules which can change conformation, and therefore, activity.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
4. They are more sensitive to change in temperature and pH.
