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Multiple Choice
What effect do enzymes have on the activation energy of a chemical reaction in the body?
A
They increase the activation energy required for the reaction to occur.
B
They lower the activation energy required for the reaction to occur.
C
They do not affect the activation energy of the reaction.
D
They eliminate the need for activation energy entirely.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to proceed. It acts as a barrier that reactants must overcome to transform into products.
Learn the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This makes reactions proceed more efficiently and at a faster rate.
Clarify the mechanism: Enzymes achieve this by stabilizing the transition state of the reaction, which reduces the energy needed to reach this intermediate state. This does not eliminate the need for activation energy but makes it significantly lower.
Compare the options: Evaluate the given statements. The correct answer is the one that aligns with the role of enzymes in lowering activation energy, as they do not increase it, eliminate it entirely, or leave it unaffected.
Conclude the explanation: Enzymes are essential for facilitating biochemical reactions in the body, ensuring that they occur under physiological conditions without requiring excessive energy input.