What term describes the change in shape of an enzyme when the substrate is bound to it?

The term that accurately describes the change in shape of an enzyme when the substrate is bound to it is "induced fit." This concept suggests that when a substrate enters the active site of an enzyme, the enzyme undergoes a conformational change to better accommodate the substrate. This change enhances the enzyme's ability to catalyze the reaction, making the binding more precise and effective.

The induced fit model contrasts with the older "lock and key" model, where it was thought that the enzyme's active site was a perfect match for the substrate. Instead, induced fit acknowledges that enzymes are flexible and can adjust their shape to improve the interaction with the substrate, ultimately increasing the efficiency of the reaction.

Understanding the induced fit mechanism is crucial in biochemistry and molecular biology, as it highlights the dynamic nature of enzyme-substrate interactions and their importance in metabolic processes.