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Multiple Choice
How are enzymes able to speed up biochemical reactions?
A
By increasing the temperature of the reaction environment
B
By changing the equilibrium constant of the reaction
C
By lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed
D
By providing additional reactants to the reaction
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions without being consumed in the process.
Learn about activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, making it easier for the reaction to proceed.
Clarify why enzymes do not change the equilibrium constant: Enzymes accelerate the rate at which equilibrium is reached but do not alter the equilibrium constant itself, as they do not change the overall energy difference between reactants and products.
Recognize that enzymes do not increase temperature or provide additional reactants: Enzymes work by stabilizing the transition state and lowering activation energy, not by altering external conditions or adding reactants.
Conclude that enzymes speed up reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, which is the correct answer in this case.