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Multiple Choice
Do enzymes lower the overall change in free energy ($\Delta G$) of a chemical reaction?
A
Yes, enzymes increase the $\Delta G$ to speed up reactions.
B
Yes, enzymes decrease the $\Delta G$ to make reactions more favorable.
C
No, enzymes do not alter the overall $\Delta G$ of a reaction.
D
No, enzymes only affect the products formed, not $\Delta G$.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of free energy ($\Delta G$): Free energy change ($\Delta G$) represents the difference in energy between the reactants and products of a chemical reaction. It determines whether a reaction is spontaneous or non-spontaneous.
Learn the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the rate of chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy, which is the energy barrier that must be overcome for the reaction to proceed.
Clarify the relationship between enzymes and $\Delta G$: Enzymes do not alter the overall free energy change ($\Delta G$) of a reaction. The $\Delta G$ is determined solely by the energy difference between reactants and products, which remains constant regardless of the presence of an enzyme.
Distinguish activation energy from $\Delta G$: Activation energy is the energy required to initiate a reaction, and enzymes lower this energy to accelerate the reaction. However, this does not affect the $\Delta G$, which is a separate thermodynamic property.
Conclude the correct answer: Based on the explanation, the correct answer is 'No, enzymes do not alter the overall $\Delta G$ of a reaction.' Enzymes only affect the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy, not the free energy change.