Describe how an enzyme increases the rate of a biochemical reaction?

An enzyme has an active site at which it binds to the substrates involved in the biochemical reaction. This results in the formation of an enzyme-substrate complex. The formation of such an intermediate complex allows the reaction to proceed via an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy. Once this lower energy pathway is initiated, the enzyme-substrate complex dissociates and product is produced. This means that less energy, such as a lower temperature, is required for the biochemical reaction to proceed and it can occur at a faster rate. The enzyme itself is neither consumed nor produced during the reaction, and therefore one enzyme molecule can catalyze many reactions.

RS

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Before a cell divides during the process of mitosis, it must duplicate its DNA. Describe the process of DNA replication.


List the structures of the nephron in kidneys and which parts of the nephron differ in permeability to water?


Explain why the atrioventricular valves open and close during the cardiac cycle.


Describe the process of mitosis