Multiple Choice
How do enzymes affect the activation energy of a chemical reaction?
6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics
Activation Energy
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What effect does an enzyme have on the activation energy of a particular reaction?
A
It has no effect on the activation energy of the reaction.
B
It eliminates the need for activation energy entirely.
C
It increases the activation energy required for the reaction.
D
It lowers the activation energy required for the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to proceed. It acts as a barrier that reactants must overcome to form products.
Learn the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. They do this without being consumed in the reaction.
Visualize the energy profile: In a reaction without an enzyme, the energy barrier (activation energy) is higher. When an enzyme is present, it stabilizes the transition state, reducing the energy needed to reach it.
Clarify misconceptions: Enzymes do not eliminate the need for activation energy entirely, nor do they increase it. Instead, they lower the activation energy, making the reaction proceed more efficiently.
Relate to biological systems: Lowering activation energy is crucial in living organisms, as it allows biochemical reactions to occur at a rate compatible with life processes under physiological conditions.
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