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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains how enzymes speed up and direct chemical reactions in biological systems?
A
They permanently bind to substrates, preventing further reactions.
B
They provide additional reactants to the reaction.
C
They lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur.
D
They increase the temperature of the cell to accelerate reactions.
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.
Clarify the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. Enzymes work by lowering this energy barrier, making it easier for reactions to proceed.
Analyze the incorrect options: Enzymes do not permanently bind to substrates; they form temporary enzyme-substrate complexes. They also do not provide additional reactants or increase the temperature of the cell, as these are not mechanisms by which enzymes function.
Focus on the correct explanation: Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions to occur, allowing biological processes to happen efficiently at normal cellular temperatures.
Relate this concept to biological systems: By lowering activation energy, enzymes ensure that essential reactions, such as metabolism and DNA replication, occur rapidly and under controlled conditions in living organisms.