Multiple Choice
Which term describes a protein that accelerates chemical reactions in biological systems?
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6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics
Enzymes
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How do enzymes affect chemical reactions?
A
They change the equilibrium position of the reaction.
B
They increase the overall free energy change ($\Delta G$) of the reaction.
C
They are consumed during the reaction and cannot be reused.
D
They lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
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 reactions occur more easily and quickly.
Debunk incorrect statements: Enzymes do not change the equilibrium position of a reaction; they only affect the rate at which equilibrium is reached. Similarly, enzymes do not alter the overall free energy change (ΔG) of a reaction, as ΔG is a property of the reactants and products themselves.
Explain enzyme reusability: Enzymes are not consumed during the reaction. They remain unchanged after facilitating the reaction and can be reused multiple times.
Conclude with the correct answer: The primary function of enzymes is to lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, thereby increasing the reaction rate without altering the thermodynamic properties of the reaction.
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