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Multiple Choice
Enzymes catalyze chemical reactions by lowering the:
A
equilibrium constant
B
activation energy
C
free energy of the products
D
concentration of substrates
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Define activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products during a chemical reaction. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, making it easier for the reaction to occur.
Clarify equilibrium constant: The equilibrium constant (K_eq) is a ratio that describes the balance between reactants and products at equilibrium. Enzymes do not alter the equilibrium constant; they only speed up the rate at which equilibrium is reached.
Explain free energy of products: The free energy of the products is a thermodynamic property that remains unchanged by the presence of enzymes. Enzymes do not affect the overall energy change (ΔG) of the reaction.
Discuss substrate concentration: Enzymes do not directly lower the concentration of substrates. Instead, they bind to substrates to form enzyme-substrate complexes, facilitating the conversion of substrates into products.