Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down urea into other substances, specifically ammonium carbonate.

Example

Urease is important in the nitrogen cycle as it helps convert urea into usable forms of nitrogen for plants.

Conversation

Have you heard about the enzyme called urease?

Yeah, I think it helps break down urea in the body, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it catalyzes that reaction.

Science is amazing, especially when it comes to enzymes like urease.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Urease is formed from "urea" (from Latin "urea", meaning a compound found in urine) and "-ase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes). The word "urease" refers to an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.

Memory Tip

Think of 'urea', which is a compound found in urine, and remember that 'urease' is the enzyme that breaks down urea.

Visually Confused Words