Multiple Choice
How can differences in enzyme concentration affect the rates of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in plant cells?
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6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics
Enzymes
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How do enzymes affect the reactions in living cells?
A
They change the overall free energy change (\( \Delta G \)) of the reaction.
B
They lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur.
C
They increase the equilibrium constant of the reactions.
D
They are consumed during the reaction and cannot be reused.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions without being consumed in the process. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Clarify the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products. Enzymes provide an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, making it easier for the reaction to occur.
Explain why enzymes do not change the overall free energy change (
): The free energy change of a reaction is determined by the difference in energy between reactants and products. Enzymes only affect the rate of the reaction, not the energy levels of reactants or products.
Discuss equilibrium constant and enzyme reuse: Enzymes do not alter the equilibrium constant of a reaction, as they do not change the ratio of products to reactants at equilibrium. Additionally, enzymes are not consumed during the reaction; they remain intact and can be reused for multiple reaction cycles.
Summarize the correct answer: Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur, enabling faster reaction rates without altering the equilibrium constant or being consumed in the process.
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