Question

Which of these statements best explains the method by which enzymes catalyze a chemical reaction?

• A. They bind to the substrate and reduce the activation energy of the reaction
• B. They reduce the energy of the product thereby enabling the formation of the product
• C. The speed increases due to the increase in heat during the ES complex formation
• D. The reaction is catalyzed by free energy change

Answer 1

The correct option is A

They bind to the substrate and reduce the activation energy of the reaction

Most reactions in nature would occur very slowly because it has a high activation energy barrier, that is, it requires a very high energy input for the reaction to occur. In presence of an enzyme, the activation energy is lowered and thus the enzyme makes it feasible for the reaction to occur.