Terminology in inhibition kinetics: “Linear inhibition” is sometimes referred to as what?

Introduction:
Enzyme inhibition terminology historically included the terms “complete (linear) inhibition” and “partial (non-linear) inhibition.” Although modern analyses prefer mechanistic categories (competitive, uncompetitive, noncompetitive, mixed), older literature and some exam syllabi still reference these legacy terms.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “Linear inhibition” refers to inhibitor behavior that yields linear secondary replots in kinetic analyses.
• Contrast is with “partial” inhibition, which often produces hyperbolic secondary plots.
• Naming is historical and sometimes discouraged but remains testable vocabulary.

Concept / Approach:
Identify the historical synonym: linear inhibition ≈ complete inhibition; partial inhibition ≈ non-linear inhibition. This mapping appears in classic kinetics resources and discussion problem sets.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Recall the synonymy: linear ↔ complete; partial ↔ non-linear.2) Evaluate options: only “complete inhibition” fits the recognized synonym.3) Select the term consistent with linear behavior in secondary plots and full rate suppression at saturating inhibitor.

Verification / Alternative check:
Authoritative sources and problem banks equate linear inhibition with complete inhibition; partial inhibition is contrasted as non-linear or hyperbolic in secondary replots (e.g., selected biochemical engineering texts and IUBMB kinetics notes).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• (b) “Incomplete” is nonstandard in this context.
• (c) “Partial” is typically contrasted with linear/complete.
• (d) “Mixed” denotes a mechanistic class (binding to E and ES) rather than the linear/partial dichotomy.
• (e) “Allosteric” refers to site/location of binding, not linearity of replots.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “partial” equals “linear”; conflating legacy terms with mechanistic categories; overlooking that these names describe plot behavior, not precise molecular mechanisms.

Final Answer:
Complete inhibition