Prediction: As the temperature increases the rate of enzyme activity will also increase, thus increasing the rate of reaction. However, if the temperature is too high the enzyme will denature.
Materials: 4 test tubes
2 small beakers
A dozen filter paper disks
Test tube rack
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)
Procedure: Step 1 Place 10 mL of potato extract in a small beaker and check the temperature to ensure that it is at room temperature (20-25°C). Step 2 Using forceps dip a filter paper disk into the extract and drop it into the test tube with 10mL of hydrogen peroxide. Step 3 Allow the filter paper disk to sink to the bottom of the test tube (if the filter paper wont sink assist it to the bottom using a glass stirring rod). As soon as the Filter paper disk reaches the bottom begin the stop watch and stop the stopwatch when the disk floats to the top. Record your observations. Step 4 Place a beaker with 10mL of potato extract onto a hot plate and heat it to approximately 50°C. When the enzyme reaches this temperature remove it from the heat. Step 5 Using forceps dip a filter paper disk into the enzyme and drop it into the test tube with hydrogen peroxide. Record the time it takes for the disk to float back to the top of the test tube (again reassuring the filter paper disk reaches the very bottom before starting the stopwatch). Step 6 Place 10mL of potato extract onto a bed of ice cubes and attempt to lower the temperature to approximately 10°C. When this has been achieved, dip the filter paper disc into the enzyme and drop it into a test tube with 10mL of hydrogen peroxide. Once the disc has reached the bottom, begin the stopwatch and stop it once it floats to the top.
Temperature (°C)Time (s)Average RateRate of Enzyme Activity (s-1) 22°C2.43 s12.2150.411
50°CDid Not Finish*NANA...