Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary ability of enzymes in biological systems?
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6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics
Enzymes
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Which of the following is a characteristic of enzymes?
A
They are always composed of nucleic acids.
B
They lower the activation energy of biochemical reactions.
C
They increase the equilibrium constant of a reaction.
D
They are consumed during the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions without being consumed in the process. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Clarify the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, making it easier for the reaction to occur.
Eliminate incorrect options: Enzymes are not composed of nucleic acids; they are typically proteins (though some RNA molecules, called ribozymes, can act as enzymes). Enzymes do not increase the equilibrium constant of a reaction; they only speed up the rate at which equilibrium is reached. Enzymes are not consumed during the reaction; they remain unchanged and can be reused.
Focus on the correct characteristic: The defining feature of enzymes is their ability to lower the activation energy of biochemical reactions, thereby increasing the reaction rate without altering the equilibrium constant or being consumed.
Summarize the correct answer: Based on the explanation, the correct characteristic of enzymes is that they lower the activation energy of biochemical reactions.
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