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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary function of enzymes in biological systems?
A
They speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.
B
They serve as structural components of cell membranes.
C
They store genetic information.
D
They provide energy for cellular processes.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in biological systems: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
Recall the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, making reactions proceed faster.
Eliminate incorrect options: Enzymes do not serve as structural components of cell membranes (this is the role of lipids and proteins), they do not store genetic information (this is the role of DNA and RNA), and they do not directly provide energy for cellular processes (this is the role of molecules like ATP).
Focus on the correct function: Enzymes facilitate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy, which is their primary function in biological systems.
Conclude that the correct answer is: 'They speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.'