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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a way in which an enzyme can speed up the reaction that it catalyzes?
A
By providing an alternative reaction pathway
B
By lowering the activation energy required for the reaction
C
By increasing the free energy change ($\Delta G$) of the reaction
D
By stabilizing the transition state of the substrate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in catalysis: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction, stabilizing the transition state, and providing an alternative reaction pathway.
Clarify the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the energy barrier that must be overcome for a reaction to proceed. Enzymes lower this barrier, making it easier for reactants to convert into products.
Explain the transition state stabilization: Enzymes stabilize the transition state, which is the high-energy intermediate formed during the reaction. This stabilization reduces the energy required to reach the transition state, thereby accelerating the reaction.
Discuss free energy change ($\Delta G$): The free energy change of a reaction ($\Delta G$) determines whether a reaction is thermodynamically favorable. Enzymes do not alter $\Delta G$; they only affect the rate at which equilibrium is reached, not the position of equilibrium itself.
Identify the incorrect statement: Since enzymes do not increase the free energy change ($\Delta G$) of a reaction, this is NOT a mechanism by which they speed up reactions. The other options correctly describe how enzymes function.