Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how enzymes catalyze reactions?
6. Enzymes and Enzyme Kinetics
Enzymes
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Which of the following is the best description of what an enzyme does?
A
It allows a chemical reaction to proceed extremely fast.
B
It increases the rate at which a chemical reaction reaches equilibrium relative to its uncatalyzed rate.
C
It makes a reaction thermodynamically favorable to allow it to proceed faster.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
Consider the concept of reaction rate: Enzymes increase the rate at which a chemical reaction reaches equilibrium, meaning they help the reaction proceed faster than it would without the enzyme.
Distinguish between thermodynamics and kinetics: Enzymes do not change the thermodynamic favorability of a reaction; they do not alter the equilibrium position or the overall energy change (ΔG) of the reaction.
Focus on the kinetic aspect: Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to proceed, which increases the reaction rate but does not affect the final equilibrium state.
Summarize the enzyme's function: The best description of an enzyme's role is that it increases the rate at which a chemical reaction reaches equilibrium relative to its uncatalyzed rate, without altering the thermodynamics of the reaction.
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