Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a protein catalyst that facilitates chemical reactions?
A
Enzyme
B
Substrate
C
Cofactor
D
Inhibitor
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'protein catalyst.' A protein catalyst is a type of protein that speeds up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. This is a key feature of enzymes.
Step 2: Review the definition of an enzyme. Enzymes are biological molecules, typically proteins, that act as catalysts to accelerate biochemical reactions. They are highly specific to the reactions they facilitate.
Step 3: Examine the other options provided: 'Substrate,' 'Cofactor,' and 'Inhibitor.' A substrate is the molecule upon which an enzyme acts, not the catalyst itself. A cofactor is a non-protein molecule that assists enzymes in their function, and an inhibitor is a molecule that decreases enzyme activity.
Step 4: Compare the definitions of all the options to identify which one matches the description of a protein catalyst. Based on the definitions, the correct answer is 'Enzyme.'
Step 5: Conclude that enzymes are the protein catalysts responsible for facilitating chemical reactions in biological systems, distinguishing them from substrates, cofactors, and inhibitors.