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Multiple Choice
Unlike other catalysts, enzymes do not get used up in the reaction; they are ___.
A
consumed as reactants
B
permanently altered by the substrate
C
converted into products
D
regenerated after each reaction
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Recognize that enzymes are not consumed during the reaction: Unlike reactants, enzymes remain unchanged after facilitating the reaction. This is a key characteristic of catalysts.
Clarify the concept of enzyme regeneration: After the reaction, enzymes return to their original state, ready to catalyze another reaction. This is why they are described as being 'regenerated' rather than consumed or permanently altered.
Eliminate incorrect options: 'Consumed as reactants' is incorrect because enzymes are not used up like reactants. 'Permanently altered by the substrate' is incorrect because enzymes retain their structure and function after the reaction. 'Converted into products' is incorrect because enzymes are not transformed into products; they facilitate the formation of products.
Conclude that the correct answer is 'regenerated after each reaction,' as this aligns with the fundamental property of enzymes being reusable catalysts in biochemical processes.