Substrate Concentration Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the substrate concentration based on the initial reaction rate, Michaelis constant, and maximum reaction rate in enzyme kinetics.
Purpose: It helps biochemists and researchers understand enzyme-substrate interactions and predict reaction conditions.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula is derived from the Michaelis-Menten equation, describing how the reaction rate depends on substrate concentration.
Details: Understanding substrate concentration helps in enzyme characterization, drug development, and optimizing biochemical reactions.
Tips: Enter the initial reaction rate (V₀), Michaelis constant (KM), and maximum rate (Vmax). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What is the Michaelis constant (KM)?
A: It's the substrate concentration at which the reaction rate is half of Vmax, representing enzyme-substrate affinity.
Q2: How is Vmax determined experimentally?
A: By measuring reaction rates at increasing substrate concentrations until the rate plateaus.
Q3: What units should I use?
A: Consistent units are required (mol/m³ for concentration, mol/m³·s for rates).
Q4: When is this calculation most useful?
A: For determining substrate levels needed to achieve specific reaction rates in enzyme studies.
Q5: What assumptions does this calculation make?
A: It assumes standard Michaelis-Menten kinetics (single substrate, steady-state conditions, no inhibition).