Question

The function of an enzyme is to

• A. Cause chemical reactions that would not otherwise take place
• B. Changes the rates of chemical reactions
• C. Change the direction of reactions
• D. Control the equilibrium points of reactions

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Changes the rates of chemical reactions

The correct option is (B):

Explanation of the correct option:

1. An enzyme is a substance found in living organisms that acts as a catalyst.
2. Enzymes are specific in that they work with only one reactant to produce specific products.
3. An enzyme's primary function is to change the rate of chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.
4. Activation energy is an energy barrier which is required by a reaction to convert substrate into product.

Explanation of the incorrect option :

Option (A):

An enzyme is not the substance that causes chemical reactions, it helps to speed up the reaction.

Option (C):

Enzymes do not change the direction of reaction.

Option (D):

Equilibrium point of the reaction is the state in which both reactant and product are present in the same concentration. It is not controlled by enzymes.

Final answer: The function of an enzyme is to change the rates of chemical reactions.