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Multiple Choice
Enzymes are important for allowing and speeding up which of the following processes in an organism?
A
Osmosis
B
Genetic mutations
C
Passive diffusion
D
Biochemical reactions
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. They do not affect processes like osmosis, genetic mutations, or passive diffusion directly.
Clarify the concept of biochemical reactions: Biochemical reactions involve the transformation of molecules within living organisms, such as the breakdown of nutrients, synthesis of proteins, and energy production. Enzymes are essential for these processes.
Differentiate between the options: Osmosis and passive diffusion are physical processes that do not require enzymes, as they occur naturally due to concentration gradients. Genetic mutations are changes in DNA sequences and are not facilitated by enzymes in the same way biochemical reactions are.
Relate enzymes to biochemical reactions: Enzymes bind to specific substrates and catalyze reactions, such as hydrolysis, oxidation-reduction, or phosphorylation, which are critical for maintaining life processes.
Conclude that enzymes are specific to biochemical reactions: Based on the explanation, enzymes are directly involved in speeding up biochemical reactions, making this the correct answer.