Experiments
Here are experiments our science specialists have selected to support the IB* topic.
Testing Catalase Activity (Gas Pressure)
Experiment #6B from Investigating Biology through Inquiry
In this Preliminary Activity, you will use catalase in yeast to catalytically decompose hydrogen peroxide. You will use an O2 Gas Sensor to determine the rate of catalase activity by measuring oxygen gas produced as H2O2 is decomposed.
Before data collection begins, there is no product, and the pressure is the same as atmospheric pressure. Shortly after data collection begins, oxygen accumulates at a rather constant rate. The slope of the curve at this initial time is constant and is called the initial rate. In this investigation, we will refer to this as the rate of catalase activity. As the peroxide is decomposed, less of it is available to react and the O2 is produced at lower rates. When no more peroxide is left, O2 is no longer produced. When data collection is complete, you will perform a linear fit on the resultant graph to determine catalase activity.
After completing the Preliminary Activity, you will first use reference sources to find out more about catalase, enzymes, and enzyme activity before you choose and investigate a researchable question dealing with catalase activity. Some topics to consider in your reference search are:
- catalyst
- enzyme
- catalase
- hydrogen peroxide
- collision theory
- reaction rate
Testing Catalase Activity (O2 Gas Sensor)
Experiment #6A from Investigating Biology through Inquiry
In this Preliminary Activity, you will use catalase in yeast to catalytically decompose hydrogen peroxide. You will use an O2 Gas Sensor to determine the rate of catalase activity by measuring oxygen gas produced as H2O2 is decomposed.
At the start of the reaction, there is no product, and the O2 concentration is the same as the atmosphere. Shortly after data collection begins, oxygen accumulates at a rather constant rate. The slope of the curve at this initial time is constant and is called the initial rate. In this investigation, we will refer to this as the rate of catalase activity. As the peroxide is decomposed, less of it is available to react and the O2 is produced at lower rates. When no more peroxide is left, O2 is no longer produced. When data collection is complete, you will perform a linear fit on the resultant graph to determine catalase activity.
After completing the Preliminary Activity, you will first use reference sources to find out more about catalase, enzymes, and enzyme activity before you choose and investigate a researchable question dealing with catalase activity. Some topics to consider in your reference search are:
- catalyst
- enzyme
- catalase
- hydrogen peroxide
- collision theory
- reaction rate
- Educational Standard
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Subject
- Biology
- Section
- Options
- Topic
- D. Human Physiology
* The IB Diploma Program is an official program of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) which authorizes schools to offer it. The material available here has been developed independently of the IBO and is not endorsed by it.