Which statement best describes how an enzyme lowers the activation energy of a reaction?
A) The enzyme covalently binds to the substrate, lowering its energy.
B) The enzyme chemically reacts with the substrate to make it more reactive.
C) The enzyme increases the temperature of the substrate, making it more reactive.
D) The substrate is held in the correct orientation for reaction to occur.
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Enzymes lower the activation energy of a reaction by holding the substrate in the correct orientation for the reaction to occur. This correctly positions the atoms and bonds in the substrate to facilitate the necessary reactions. The enzyme does not change the energy of the substrate, and therefore does not chemically react with it or increase its temperature.

Which Statement Best Describes How an Enzyme Lowers the Activation