Basic Details
Word: Enzyme
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A special protein in the body that helps speed up chemical reactions.
Synonyms: Catalyst, biocatalyst
Antonyms: Inhibitor
Idioms and Phrases
- Enzyme activity: Refers to the level at which enzymes are working to speed up reactions. Example: "The enzyme activity in the yeast increased during the warm fermentation process."
- Break it down like an enzyme: Means to simplify or elucidate something complex. Example: "He can break down the most complicated science concepts like an enzyme."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Enzymes in our saliva help break down food before it reaches our stomach.
Example 2: Scientists study enzymes to better understand how our bodies work and how to treat diseases.
Example 3: The washing powder contains enzymes that help remove tough stains from clothes.
Fun Fact
Did you know that there are over 5,000 different types of enzymes in the human body, each with a specific job to do? They play a crucial role in digestion, metabolism, and many other processes.
Famous Quote
"Enzymes are the hammer and nails of biology, building and breaking down molecules in the dance of life." – Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "enzyme" mean?
a) A type of fat
b) A special protein that speeds up chemical reactions
c) A kind of carbohydrate
d) A mineral found in food
Answer: b) A special protein that speeds up chemical reactions
2. Which of these is a synonym of "enzyme"?
a) Catalyst
b) Cell
c) Virus
d) Bacteria
Answer: a) Catalyst
3. What is the opposite of "enzyme"?
a) Biocatalyst
b) Inhibitor
c) Hormone
d) Protein
Answer: b) Inhibitor
4. Which sentence uses "enzyme" correctly?
a) The enzyme quickly dried the clothes.
b) Enzymes in your stomach help you digest food.
c) The enzyme ran very fast.
d) Enzyme is my favourite colour.
Answer: b) Enzymes in your stomach help you digest food.
5. Which idiom relates to enzymes?
a) Break it down like an enzyme
b) Bite the bullet
c) A stitch in time saves nine
d) Haste makes waste
Answer: a) Break it down like an enzyme
