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Multiple Choice
Enzymes ______ the rate of a chemical reaction.
A
decrease
B
increase
C
have no effect on
D
reverse
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Recall the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the energy barrier that must be overcome for a reaction to occur. Enzymes work by stabilizing the transition state, making it easier for reactants to convert into products.
Eliminate incorrect options: Enzymes do not decrease the rate of a reaction, as their primary function is to increase it. They also do not reverse reactions, as they only facilitate the reaction in the direction dictated by thermodynamics.
Consider the correct effect: Enzymes increase the rate of a chemical reaction by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the above reasoning, the correct answer is 'increase.'