How do enzymes allow chemical reactions to occur at body temperature?
Answer options with 4 options
A.
by increasing the rate of reaction
B.
by producing the products of the reaction
C.
by releasing heat energy required for the reaction
D.
by lowering the activation energy to start the reaction
D. by lowering the activation energy to start the reaction
What is one function of proteins in a cell?
Answer options with 4 options
A.
Proteins supply immediate energy.
B.
Proteins store genetic information.
C.
Proteins regulate chemical reactions.
D.
Proteins are stored for future energy use.
C. Proteins regulate chemical reactions.
D. by lowering the activation energy to start the reaction
The correct answer is D. Enzymes allow chemical reactions to occur at body temperature by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction. To understand why, let's break down the process.
When any chemical reaction occurs, it requires a certain amount of energy to start, known as the activation energy. At lower temperatures, it can be challenging for reactant molecules to acquire this energy, resulting in slower or even negligible reaction rates.
Enzymes are specialized proteins that act as biological catalysts, meaning they speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. Enzymes achieve this by binding to specific reactant molecules, called substrates, and facilitating the formation of the products.
Enzymes are remarkable because they provide an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. By lowering the activation energy, enzymes make it easier for the reactant molecules to overcome the energy barrier required to start the reaction. Consequently, the reaction can occur at body temperature or under physiological conditions, where the thermal energy available is sufficient.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D - enzymes lower the activation energy to start the reaction, allowing chemical reactions to occur efficiently at body temperature.