An inexpensive introductory-level enzyme experiment was developed using raffinose family sugars extracted from green split peas as a substrate and the enzymes alpha-galactosidase and sucrase found in Beano. The reaction studied was the hydrolysis of raffinose family sugars to galactose, glucose, and fructose, and the reaction rate was determined using a retail glucometer to measure the concentration of glucose. Results are given on the effect of substrate concentration, enzyme concentration, temperature, and heavy metals on enzyme activity.
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Citation
Hardee, John R.; Montgomery, Tina M.; Jones, Wray H. J. Chem. Educ.2000 77 498.
Keywords
Introductory / High School Chemistry; Nonmajor Courses; Enzymes; Food Science
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