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Multiple Choice
Which explanation best describes the role of enzymes as catalysts in living systems?
A
Enzymes increase the activation energy required for reactions, slowing down the process.
B
Enzymes change the equilibrium position of reactions, favoring product formation.
C
Enzymes are consumed in the reaction and must be constantly replenished.
D
Enzymes provide an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, speeding up the process.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in living systems without being consumed in the process.
Explore the concept of activation energy: Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, allowing reactions to proceed more quickly.
Consider the alternative reaction pathway: Enzymes provide an alternative pathway for the reaction with a lower activation energy, which increases the rate of the reaction.
Clarify the misconception about equilibrium: Enzymes do not change the equilibrium position of a reaction; they only affect the rate at which equilibrium is reached.
Recognize the efficiency of enzymes: By lowering the activation energy, enzymes enable reactions to occur at a faster rate and under milder conditions than would otherwise be possible.