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Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry reactions, what is the effect of an inhibitor binding to an enzyme?
A
It has no effect on the reaction rate but changes the product formed.
B
It increases the rate of the reaction by stabilizing the transition state.
C
It increases the rate of the reaction by enhancing substrate binding.
D
It decreases the rate of the reaction by preventing substrate binding.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of an enzyme in a chemical reaction: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
Define what an inhibitor is: An inhibitor is a molecule that binds to an enzyme and decreases its activity. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as competitive, non-competitive, or uncompetitive inhibition.
Explore how inhibitors affect enzyme activity: Inhibitors can prevent substrate molecules from binding to the enzyme's active site, or they can bind to another part of the enzyme to change its shape, reducing its ability to catalyze the reaction.
Analyze the effect of an inhibitor on reaction rate: By preventing substrate binding, inhibitors decrease the rate of the reaction because fewer substrate molecules can be converted into products.
Conclude the effect of an inhibitor: The correct statement is that an inhibitor decreases the rate of the reaction by preventing substrate binding, as it reduces the enzyme's ability to facilitate the conversion of substrates into products.