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Multiple Choice
How do enzymes affect the activation energy of a chemical reaction?
A
They do not affect the activation energy of the reaction.
B
They lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
C
They increase the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
D
They convert activation energy into kinetic energy.
Verified step by step guidance
1
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 transform into products.
Learn the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They achieve this by interacting with reactants (substrates) to facilitate the reaction.
Explore how enzymes lower activation energy: Enzymes stabilize the transition state of the reaction, reducing the energy required to reach this state. This makes it easier for the reaction to occur.
Recognize the impact of lowering activation energy: By lowering the activation energy, enzymes increase the rate of the reaction, allowing it to proceed more efficiently under physiological conditions.
Clarify misconceptions: Enzymes do not increase activation energy, convert activation energy into kinetic energy, or leave activation energy unchanged. Their primary function is to lower the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.