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Multiple Choice
What is the term used for reactants that bind to an enzyme?
A
Inhibitors
B
Cofactors
C
Substrates
D
Products
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 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 occur.
Step 2: Learn the terminology associated with enzyme activity. Reactants that bind to the active site of an enzyme are specifically referred to as 'substrates.' These are the molecules upon which the enzyme acts.
Step 3: Differentiate between substrates and other terms like inhibitors, cofactors, and products. Inhibitors are molecules that decrease enzyme activity, cofactors are non-protein molecules that assist enzyme function, and products are the molecules formed after the reaction is complete.
Step 4: Recognize that substrates interact with the enzyme's active site, forming an enzyme-substrate complex. This interaction is crucial for the catalytic process.
Step 5: Apply this knowledge to identify the correct term for reactants that bind to an enzyme. The term is 'substrates,' as they are the specific reactants involved in enzyme-mediated reactions.