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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is correct about the catalytic function of enzymes?
A
Enzymes increase the equilibrium constant of a reaction.
B
Enzymes are consumed in the reaction they catalyze.
C
Enzymes change the overall free energy change of a reaction.
D
Enzymes lower the activation energy of a 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 do not alter the equilibrium constant of a reaction. The equilibrium constant is determined by the free energies of the reactants and products, which remain unchanged by the presence of an enzyme.
Note that enzymes do not change the overall free energy change (ΔG) of a reaction. They only affect the rate at which equilibrium is reached, not the position of the equilibrium itself.
Identify that the primary role of enzymes is to lower the activation energy of a reaction. This is the energy barrier that must be overcome for reactants to be converted into products.
Conclude that by lowering the activation energy, enzymes increase the rate of the reaction, allowing it to proceed more quickly under the same conditions.