Michaelis-Menten Kinetics

There are several methods for displaying the kinetic behavior of an enzyme. Plots of v versus [S] are based on the Michaelis-Menten equation. In this exercise, we will examine a typical dataset in terms of a Michaelis-Menten (v versus [S]) plot. We will then ask what happens when the Km and Vmax parameters change.

The plot on the next page is interactive, and the initial values of Km and Vmax are shown in the box below the plot. The units for these parameters are also indicated.

To see how the plot changes when Km and Vmax are changed by factors of two, click the appropriate button. Then, to make your own choices for the kinetic parameters, enter your values in both of the input boxes and click on "Plot Your Values." Note that your values must lie within a factor of ten of the initial values.

To begin the applet again from the beginning, click on "Reset".