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Multiple Choice
Which factor makes enzymes well-suited to the role of catalyst in a biochemical reaction?
A
They are consumed during the reaction and must be replenished.
B
They lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
C
They increase the temperature of the reaction environment.
D
They permanently alter the equilibrium position of 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.
Recall the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. Enzymes function by lowering this energy barrier, making it easier for the reaction to proceed.
Eliminate incorrect options: Enzymes are not consumed during the reaction, so the first option is incorrect. Enzymes do not increase the temperature of the reaction environment, so the third option is also incorrect. Enzymes do not permanently alter the equilibrium position of the reaction; they only speed up the rate at which equilibrium is reached, so the fourth option is incorrect.
Focus on the correct option: The correct answer is that enzymes lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. This is the key factor that makes enzymes well-suited to their role as catalysts.
Summarize the importance of enzymes: By lowering activation energy, enzymes allow biochemical reactions to occur more efficiently and under milder conditions, which is essential for maintaining life processes in organisms.