What molecule is catalase breaking down in this reaction?

#2H_2O_2 -catalase-> 2H_2O + O_2#

1 Answer

The catalase enzyme is breaking down hydrogen peroxide (#H_2O_2#)

Explanation:

In a chemical equation the arrow will point towards the products (things made) of the reaction. This reaction makes water (#H_2O#) and oxygen (#O_2#).

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_2#).

Here is a video which shows this reaction.

Hope this helps!