Enzymes speed up chemical reactions by                  . a. heating cells; b. binding to substrates and placing stress on their bonds; c. changing the shape of the cell; d. supplying energy to the substrate

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of enzymes in chemical reactions. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
2. Examine the image provided. The image shows an enzyme (A) with an active site (B) where the substrate (C) binds.
3. Understand the mechanism of enzyme action. Enzymes work by binding to substrates at their active sites, forming an enzyme-substrate complex.
4. Analyze how enzymes lower the activation energy of reactions. By binding to substrates, enzymes place stress on the bonds within the substrates, making it easier for the reaction to occur.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is that enzymes speed up chemical reactions by binding to substrates and placing stress on their bonds.

Key Concepts

Enzyme-Substrate Interaction

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by binding to specific substrates at their active sites. This interaction forms an enzyme-substrate complex, which lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, allowing the reaction to occur more rapidly.

Activation Energy

Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. Enzymes lower this energy barrier by stabilizing the transition state of the reaction, making it easier for substrates to convert into products. This is crucial for facilitating metabolic processes in living organisms.

Induced Fit Model

The induced fit model describes how enzymes change shape upon substrate binding. This conformational change enhances the fit between the enzyme and substrate, increasing the likelihood of a reaction. It contrasts with the lock-and-key model, emphasizing the dynamic nature of enzyme activity.