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Multiple Choice
What ability do enzymes have in the context of catalysis?
A
Change the equilibrium position of a reaction
B
Lower the activation energy of a reaction
C
Increase the activation energy of a reaction
D
Convert reactants into products without any energy input
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
Recognize that enzymes do not change the equilibrium position of a reaction; they only help the reaction reach equilibrium faster.
Identify that the primary role of enzymes in catalysis is to lower the activation energy of a reaction, which is the energy barrier that must be overcome for a reaction to proceed.
Note that lowering the activation energy allows more reactant molecules to have enough energy to reach the transition state, thus increasing the rate of the reaction.
Clarify that enzymes do not increase the activation energy or convert reactants into products without any energy input; they facilitate the reaction by providing an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy.