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Botany Question 10 – AP-EAMCET 2025

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Statement I - Lysosomes were found to be very rich in hydrolytic enzymes. Statement II - These enzymes are optimally active at the basic pH. Identify the correct option from the following

Recall the primary role of lysosomes in a cell, which involves the breakdown of waste materials and cellular debris.

Step 1: Evaluate Statement I regarding Lysosomes and Hydrolytic Enzymes.✦ Active

Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells. They are often referred to as the "recycling centers" or "waste disposal units" of the cell. Their primary function is to break down waste materials and cellular debris. To perform this function, lysosomes contain a wide array of digestive enzymes, collectively known as hydrolytic enzymes. These enzymes include proteases, lipases, nucleases, and carbohydrases, which are capable of hydrolyzing (breaking down with water) various macromolecules. Therefore, Statement I is correct.

Step 2: Evaluate Statement II regarding the optimal pH for lysosomal enzymes.○ Expand

The hydrolytic enzymes within lysosomes are unique because they function optimally in an acidic environment. The internal pH of a lysosome is typically maintained at around pH=4.5 to 5.0, which is significantly more acidic than the neutral pH of the cytoplasm (pH≈7.2). This acidic environment is crucial for the optimal activity of these enzymes. The lysosomal membrane contains proton pumps that actively transport H+ ions into the lysosome to maintain this low pH. If the lysosomal membrane were to rupture, releasing these enzymes into the cytoplasm, their activity would be greatly reduced due to the neutral pH, thus preventing uncontrolled digestion of cellular components. A basic pH (above 7) would further inactivate these enzymes. Therefore, Statement II is false.

💡 Teacher's Secret Hint

Remember that the acidic environment of lysosomes is a protective mechanism. If the enzymes leaked into the cytoplasm, they would be largely inactive at the neutral cytoplasmic pH, preventing damage to the cell.

Step 3: Combine the conclusions for both statements.○ Expand

Based on the evaluation, Statement I is correct, and Statement II is false. This corresponds to option 3.

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