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IGCSEBiology
Trial Class

Original practice · 5 questions · 14 marks · about 16 minutes

Enzyme Applications Practice Questions

Biology editorial review is supported by the named review panel. Reviewer participation may vary by guide. Checked against Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610 (2026–2028); last reviewed August 2026.

These questions explore how enzymes are used in industry and everyday life, including biological washing powders, food production, and medicine.

Before you open the answers

  • Attempt every question without notes.
  • Show working for calculations and write complete biological statements.
  • Use the suggested time as a guide, not a strict limit on the first attempt.

These are original practice questions. They do not reproduce an official Cambridge paper or official mark scheme.

  1. Question 1

    Paper 2 Both 3 marks Difficulty 2/5

    Explain how biological washing powders remove food stains from clothing.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. They contain enzymes such as proteases and lipases.
    2. Proteases break down protein-based stains (e.g. Blood, egg) into soluble amino acids.
    3. Lipases break down fat/grease stains into fatty acids and glycerol, which dissolve in water.

  2. Question 2

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    Suggest why biological washing powders are recommended for use at 40°C rather than 90°C.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Enzymes have an optimum temperature: around 40°C gives good activity.
    2. At 90°C, the enzymes would be denatured and unable to work.
    3. Lower temperature also saves energy / is more economical.

  3. Question 3

    Paper 2 Core 2 marks Difficulty 2/5

    Name the enzyme used to convert starch syrup into glucose syrup in the food industry.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Amylase (or carbohydrase).
    2. It hydrolyses starch into maltose / glucose.

  4. Question 4

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 4/5

    Pectinase is used in fruit juice production. Explain the role of pectinase and its effect on juice yield.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Pectinase breaks down pectin in plant cell walls.
    2. This breaks open cells and releases more juice.
    3. Increases the volume / yield of juice and makes it clearer.

  5. Question 5

    Paper 4 Extended 3 marks Difficulty 3/5

    State two advantages and one disadvantage of using enzymes in industrial processes.

    Show model answer and marking guidance
    1. Advantage 1: enzymes work at lower temperatures: reducing energy costs.
    2. Advantage 2: enzymes are specific: fewer unwanted by-products / side reactions.
    3. Disadvantage: enzymes are denatured by high temperatures or extreme pH: conditions must be carefully controlled.

Mark the set consistently

Award a point only when the idea is clearly present in the written answer. Correct any missed point in a complete sentence, then test the same skill on a different question several days later.

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