Question

What molecule is catalase breaking down in this reaction?

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

Answer 1

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!