Active center

Active Center is a term used in various fields of study, including chemistry, biology, and physics. It refers to the region of a molecule, atom, or system where the primary activity or reaction occurs.

Chemistry

In chemistry, the active center is the site on an enzyme or catalyst where the reaction takes place. It is typically a pocket or groove on the enzyme's surface that contains residues that participate in the reaction. The active center's unique microenvironment facilitates the reaction, often involving the breaking and forming of chemical bonds.

Biology

In biology, the active center refers to the part of an enzyme where substrates bind and undergo a chemical reaction. This site is key to the enzyme's function. The active center's structure and properties, such as its shape and charge, are crucial for its function. Changes to the active center, such as through mutation or denaturation, can significantly affect the enzyme's activity.

Physics

In physics, particularly in semiconductor physics, the active center refers to the region in a material where the primary activity, such as electron movement or photon absorption, occurs. This region is often where the material's properties, such as its conductivity or optical properties, are determined.

See Also

• Enzyme kinetics
• Catalysis
• Semiconductor physics