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Multiple Choice
What is the primary role of an enzyme in a chemical reaction?
A
To provide energy for the reaction to occur
B
To change the equilibrium position of the reaction
C
To increase the activation energy required for the reaction
D
To decrease the activation energy required for the reaction
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 work by lowering the activation energy of a reaction, which is the energy barrier that must be overcome for the reaction to proceed.
Activation energy is the minimum energy required to convert reactants into products. By decreasing this energy, enzymes make it easier for the reaction to occur.
Enzymes do not provide energy for the reaction or change the equilibrium position; they only make it easier for the reaction to reach equilibrium by lowering the activation energy.
Therefore, the primary role of an enzyme in a chemical reaction is to decrease the activation energy required for the reaction.