In systemic tissue fluids, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the reaction co2 + h2o → h2co3 (which then can dissociate into h + and hco3-). in fact, co2 released from cells is converted to hco3 - ions and travels in that form in the bloodstream. hco3 - is reconverted to co2 + h2o in the pulmonary capillaries by the same enzyme, and there the co2 is exhaled. how is it possible for the same enzyme to catalyze reverse reactions?

Question

Belen Buckley

Chemistry

14 January, 17:17

In systemic tissue fluids, the enzyme carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the reaction co2 + h2o → h2co3 (which then can dissociate into h + and hco3-). in fact, co2 released from cells is converted to hco3 - ions and travels in that form in the bloodstream. hco3 - is reconverted to co2 + h2o in the pulmonary capillaries by the same enzyme, and there the co2 is exhaled. how is it possible for the same enzyme to catalyze reverse reactions?

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Diya Parsons · Answer 1

It is achievable for the same enzyme to catalyze reverse reactions for the reason that the direction of a reversible reaction is determined by the concentrations of reactants and products. In pulmonary circulation, the low CO2 concentration supports the making of CO2 and H2O.