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Multiple Choice
2. An enzyme is considered a ______ because it speeds up chemical reactions without being used up.
A
substrate
B
inhibitor
C
catalyst
D
product
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the role of an enzyme in biochemical reactions. Enzymes are biological molecules, typically proteins, that accelerate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Step 2: Define the term 'catalyst.' A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed or permanently altered in the process.
Step 3: Compare the given options: 'substrate,' 'inhibitor,' 'product,' and 'catalyst.' A substrate is the molecule upon which an enzyme acts, an inhibitor slows down or stops enzyme activity, and a product is the result of the reaction. Only 'catalyst' matches the definition provided in the question.
Step 4: Confirm that enzymes fit the definition of a catalyst because they speed up reactions without being used up or altered permanently during the process.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer to the question is 'catalyst,' as it aligns with the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions.