Understanding the Enzyme-Substrate Complex in Biochemistry

Subject : Biology

Question:

The formation of a(n) ______ alters some of the chemical bonds of the substrates.

A. product

B. enzyme

C. catalyst

D. enzyme-substrate complex

Expert Verified Solution:

The correct answer is D. enzyme-substrate complex.

In biochemical reactions, the enzyme-substrate complex is a temporary molecular arrangement that forms when an enzyme binds to its substrate. This complex facilitates the chemical reaction by altering the chemical bonds within the substrate molecules.

Here’s a detailed explanation:

Enzyme-Substrate Complex: When an enzyme encounters its specific substrate, it binds to it, forming an enzyme-substrate complex. This complex stabilizes the transition state and lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. As a result, the enzyme can effectively alter the chemical bonds in the substrate, leading to the formation of products.

Product: The product is the final result of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction, not the intermediate complex.

Enzyme: An enzyme is a biological catalyst that facilitates reactions but does not itself alter the substrate’s bonds directly. Instead, it works through the enzyme-substrate complex.

Catalyst: A catalyst, including enzymes, speeds up reactions but does not directly alter the substrate’s bonds without forming a complex with it.