The KM for a substrate is equal to a. k-1/k2. b. Vmax/2. c. [S] at Vmax/2.

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### Understanding the Michaelis Constant (KM)

In the study of enzyme kinetics, the Michaelis constant (KM) for a substrate is a crucial parameter that defines the substrate concentration at which the reaction rate is at half of its maximum. This concept can be expressed in a few different ways:

a. **k-1/k2**: This option suggests a relation involving reaction rate constants. Typically, KM is more directly related to the breakdown and formation of enzyme-substrate complexes rather than a simple ratio of these constants.

b. **Vmax/2**: This option is incorrect as KM specifically refers to substrate concentration, not the velocity directly.

c. **[S] at Vmax/2**: This is the correct representation. KM is defined as the substrate concentration ([S]) at which the reaction velocity is half of Vmax (maximum velocity).

Understanding KM helps in determining the affinity of an enzyme for its substrate; a lower KM indicates a higher affinity, meaning less substrate is needed to reach half of the maximum reaction rate.
Transcribed Image Text:### Understanding the Michaelis Constant (KM) In the study of enzyme kinetics, the Michaelis constant (KM) for a substrate is a crucial parameter that defines the substrate concentration at which the reaction rate is at half of its maximum. This concept can be expressed in a few different ways: a. **k-1/k2**: This option suggests a relation involving reaction rate constants. Typically, KM is more directly related to the breakdown and formation of enzyme-substrate complexes rather than a simple ratio of these constants. b. **Vmax/2**: This option is incorrect as KM specifically refers to substrate concentration, not the velocity directly. c. **[S] at Vmax/2**: This is the correct representation. KM is defined as the substrate concentration ([S]) at which the reaction velocity is half of Vmax (maximum velocity). Understanding KM helps in determining the affinity of an enzyme for its substrate; a lower KM indicates a higher affinity, meaning less substrate is needed to reach half of the maximum reaction rate.
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