Chapter 6, Problem 1RQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

The definition of the following terminologies:

(a) Catalyst

(b) Transition state

(c) Substrate

(d) Activation energy

(e) Active site

Introduction:

During a biochemical reaction, reactants are converted into product. Reactants may be the substrate molecules onto which the enzymes act to form a product. Before forming the product, the reactant forms an intermediate compound in the least stable transition state that exists for a very less time. The free energy of activation is higher in the absence of a catalyst, whereas it is least when a catalyst is present. Catalysts speed up the reaction rate without getting consumed during a reaction.