Question
You want to control the temperature of an enzyme-controlled reaction that is taking place inside a flask . What is the most effective way to keep the reaction at a controlled and steady temperature? cover the flask with a liel and do not heat tt Bunsen burner flame underneath the flask throughout the reaction water bath Bunsen burner flame underneath the flask every 30 seconds
Answer
4.1
(183 Votes)
Mabel
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
The most effective way to keep an enzyme-controlled reaction at a controlled and steady temperature is to use a water bath.
Explanation
## Step 1: In this problem, we are asked to find the most effective way to keep an enzyme-controlled reaction at a controlled and steady temperature. The options provided are: covering the flask with a lid and not heating it, using a Bunsen burner flame underneath the flask throughout the reaction, using a water bath, or using a Bunsen burner flame underneath the flask every 30 seconds.## Step 2: Enzyme-controlled reactions are sensitive to temperature changes. Too much heat can denature the enzyme, rendering it nonfunctional, while too little heat may not provide the necessary energy for the reaction to occur. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a steady and controlled temperature.## Step 3: Covering the flask with a lid and not heating it may not provide the necessary heat for the reaction. Using a Bunsen burner flame underneath the flask throughout the reaction or every 30 seconds may provide too much heat, potentially denaturing the enzyme.## Step 4: A water bath, on the other hand, allows for a controlled and steady temperature. The water in the bath can absorb excess heat and distribute it evenly, preventing the temperature from rising too high. At the same time, the heat from the water can provide the necessary energy for the reaction to occur.### The formula for heat transfer in a water bath is: ###
### where
is the heat transferred,
is the mass of the water,
is the specific heat of water, and
is the change in temperature. This formula shows that the water bath can absorb and distribute heat effectively, making it the most suitable option for maintaining a controlled and steady temperature.