Question

1. using graph 1, explain how enzymes work. include the term activation energy and compare the two curves, explaining which is with the enzyme.

Explanation:

Enzymes are biological catalysts. The red curve represents the reaction with an enzyme, and the black curve represents the reaction without an enzyme. Activation energy (Eₐ) is the energy barrier that must be overcome for a reaction to occur. Enzymes lower the activation - energy of a reaction. In the graph, the peak of the red curve (with enzyme) is lower than that of the black curve (without enzyme), indicating a reduced activation energy. This allows the reaction to proceed more easily and at a faster rate. The change in free energy (ΔG) is the same for both reactions, meaning the overall thermodynamics of the reaction are not altered by the enzyme; only the activation energy is affected.

Answer:

The red curve is the one with the enzyme as it has a lower activation energy compared to the black curve. Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy of a chemical reaction, making it easier for the reactants to reach the transition state and form products, without changing the overall free - energy change of the reaction.