How does catalase break down hydrogen peroxide?
Quick Answer
Catalase breaks down and destroys hydrogen peroxide in two steps. The first step involves the catalase removing and binding one oxygen atom and releasing the rest of the hydrogen peroxide molecule as water. The second step is the catalase breaking down another hydrogen peroxide molecule by releasing oxygen gas and water. A pH of seven is optimal for human catalase activity to occur.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Catalase is part of almost every living cell. It is a hard-working enzyme that deactivates millions of hydrogen peroxide molecules every second. The enzyme breaks down hydrogen peroxide, which is produced during cell metabolism, to protect the cells from oxidative damage. There are four identical protein subunits that make up the catalase enzyme. These chains of protein subunits intertwine to form a stable structure, which is important because catalase must deal with hydrogen peroxide, a reactive compound. Each subunit of catalase includes an iron atom that binds the oxygen atom of hydrogen peroxide during its decomposition. Persons with catalase gene mutations have a metabolic disorder which often causes oral sores. The catalase enzyme's protection function helps prevent disease and possibly certain aging processes. As time goes by and a person ages, hydrogen peroxide builds up in the hair follicles and hair shafts, while concentrations of catalase slowly decrease, which results in the bleaching of hairs or grey hair.
Learn more about Atoms & MoleculesRelated Questions
-
Q:
How can hydrogen peroxide be used for cleaning?
A: A solution of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, or sodium percarbonate (a powdered form of hydrogen peroxide) mixed with water can be poured into a spray bottle... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Is hydrogen peroxide dangerous?
A: Household-grade hydrogen peroxide can irritate the eyes and skin, but ingesting small amounts is typically not dangerous, according to the National Capitol... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How do you dye your hair with peroxide?
A: To dye your hair slowly with hydrogen peroxide, mix equal parts of peroxide and water in a spray bottle, and spray your hair with the mix every morning unt... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How do you bleach hair with peroxide?
A: To bleach hair with peroxide, pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle, mist the hair with it, spend time in the sun, rinse the hair, a... Full Answer >Filed Under:
