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Multiple Choice
What is the effect of an enzyme on the activation energy of a chemical reaction?
A
It lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
B
It changes the overall free energy (9G) of the reaction.
C
It increases the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
D
It has no effect on the activation energy of the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products during a chemical reaction. Enzymes play a critical role in modifying this energy barrier.
Learn the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy, making it easier for the reaction to proceed under physiological conditions.
Clarify the relationship between activation energy and reaction rate: Lowering the activation energy increases the rate of the reaction because more reactant molecules can overcome the energy barrier and form products.
Understand the distinction between activation energy and free energy (ΔG): Enzymes do not change the overall free energy (ΔG) of the reaction. ΔG determines whether a reaction is spontaneous, while activation energy determines the rate of the reaction.
Evaluate the options provided: Based on the above concepts, identify the correct statement about the effect of enzymes on activation energy. The correct answer is that enzymes lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.