Question

For a reaction catalyzed by an enzyme, the energy of which one of the following is affected by an enzyme?

• A. Products only
• B. Reactants only
• C. Transition state only
• D. Products and reactants
• E. Transition state and products

Answer 1

The correct option is C Transition state only

Any chemical reaction includes formation of transition state between reactant and product. Formation of transition state requires high energy content of reactant molecules for alignment of reacting groups, formation of transient unstable charges, rearrangements of chemical bonds etc. The energy required for formation of transition state is termed as activation energy. Enzymes enhance the rate of reaction by lowering down the aactivation energy of transition state. This makes option C correct answer.