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In the last step of extracting energy from sugar, an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase attaches electrons to oxygen and hydrogen ions, forming water. The electrons are temporarily bound to an iron atom in the enzyme before they are attached to oxygen. Cyanide is a poison that acts by permanently binding to the enzyme near this iron atom, preventing oxygen from getting near enough to accept the electrons. How would you describe the action of cyanide?

Respuesta :

Answer:

Cyanide is an inhibitor.

Explanation:

The cytochrome C oxidase has an active site which is the iron atom. When the cyanide binds to the iron it's inhibiting the enzyme activity, because it's physically avoiding the oxygen (substrate) from binding to the active site. This can lower the enzyme activity or stop it completely.