For a Michaelis–Menten enzyme, what fraction of Vmax is observed when the substrate concentration [S] equals 2 × Km?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 0.66

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Understanding how velocity depends on [S] relative to Km is central to predicting reaction rates and designing assays. This conceptual question checks whether you can manipulate the Michaelis–Menten expression without arithmetic complexity.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • v = Vmax * [S] / (Km + [S]).
  • We are given [S] = 2 Km.


Concept / Approach:
Substitute [S] = 2 Km directly into the equation and simplify as ratios; no absolute numbers are needed.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Start with v/Vmax = [S]/(Km + [S]).Put [S] = 2 Km: v/Vmax = (2 Km) / (Km + 2 Km) = 2 / 3.As a decimal, 2/3 ≈ 0.66.


Verification / Alternative check:
At [S] = Km, v = 0.5 Vmax; increasing [S] to 2 Km should raise v above 0.5 but still below Vmax, consistent with 0.66.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 0.09 and 0.33: Too low for [S] > Km.
  • 0.91: Approaches saturation; would require [S] ≫ Km.
  • 0.50: Occurs at [S] = Km, not 2 Km.


Common Pitfalls:
Adding rather than dividing; or assuming linearity at all [S].


Final Answer:
0.66.

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