The lower value of `K_(m)` means

Options

A. higher susbtrate affinity of enzyme
B. higher enzyme activity
C. no effect on reaction
D. lower the affinity of enzyme with substrate.

Answer

To understand the implications of a lower value of \( K_m \) in enzyme kinetics, we can break down the concept step by step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding \( K_m \)**:
- \( K_m \) is known as the Michaelis constant. It is a key parameter in the Michaelis-Menten equation, which describes the rate of enzymatic reactions.
- It represents the substrate concentration at which the reaction velocity is half of the maximum velocity (\( V_{max} \)) of the enzyme.

2. **Interpreting the Value of \( K_m \)**:
- A lower \( K_m \) value indicates that a lower concentration of substrate is needed to reach half of \( V_{max} \).
- This implies that the enzyme can achieve half-saturation with a smaller amount of substrate.

3. **Affinity of the Enzyme for the Substrate**:
- The affinity of an enzyme for its substrate is inversely related to \( K_m \).
- Therefore, a lower \( K_m \) means that the enzyme has a **higher affinity** for the substrate.
- This means that the enzyme can bind to the substrate more effectively and requires less substrate to become active.

4. **Enzyme Activity**:
- With a higher affinity (lower \( K_m \)), the enzyme is more efficient at lower substrate concentrations, leading to potentially higher enzyme activity under those conditions.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Thus, the lower value of \( K_m \) signifies a high substrate affinity of the enzyme, which can lead to higher enzyme activity when substrate levels are low.

### Final Answer:
The lower value of \( K_m \) means high substrate affinity of the enzyme.