What molecule is catalase breaking down in this reaction?

2H_2O_2 -catalase-> 2H_2O + O_22H2O2catalase2H2O+O2

1 Answer

The catalase enzyme is breaking down hydrogen peroxide (H_2O_2H2O2)

Explanation:

In a chemical equation the arrow will point towards the products (things made) of the reaction. This reaction makes water (H_2OH2O) and oxygen (O_2O2).

The other side of the arrow is where you find the reactant (starting material). In this reaction the starting material is hydrogen peroxide(H_2O_2H2O2).

Here is a video which shows this reaction.

Hope this helps!