After an enzyme catalyzes a reaction and the product is released, what typically happens to the enzyme?

• A. The enzyme becomes part of the product formed.
• B. The enzyme is permanently altered and cannot be reused.
• C. The enzyme is degraded by the cell immediately after the reaction.
• D. The enzyme is released unchanged and can catalyze another reaction.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up reactions without being consumed or permanently altered in the process.
2. Recognize the mechanism of enzyme action: Enzymes bind to substrates at their active site, forming an enzyme-substrate complex, which facilitates the conversion of substrates into products.
3. Learn what happens after the reaction: Once the product is formed, it is released from the enzyme's active site, leaving the enzyme unchanged and ready to catalyze another reaction.
4. Clarify why enzymes are reusable: Enzymes are not part of the product, nor are they degraded or permanently altered during the reaction. This property allows them to participate in multiple reaction cycles.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: The enzyme is released unchanged and can catalyze another reaction, which is a fundamental characteristic of enzymes in biochemical processes.