Question

A researcher proposes a model of an enzyme-catalyzed reaction in which a reactant is converted to a product. The model is based on the idea that the reactant passes through a transition state within the enzyme-substrate complex before the reactant is converted to the product.

Answer 1

Here are the options to complete the question

A. The enzyme’s active site binds to and stabilizes the reactant, which decreases the free-energy change of the reaction.

B. The enzyme’s active site binds to and stabilizes the transition state, which decreases the activation energy of the reaction.

C. The enzyme’s active site binds to and stabilizes the product, which increases the amount of energy released by the reaction.

D. The enzyme’s active site binds to and stabilizes both the reactant and the product at the same time, which increases the reaction’s equilibrium constant.

Our CORRECT ANSWER IS SURELY B.

B. The enzyme’s active site binds to and stabilizes the transition state, which decreases the activation energy of the reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The enzyme active site will bind to and stabilizes the negative charge of the transition state of its substrate by using its NH3+ ion to stabilize it. This will in turn lower the activation energy so as to increase the rate of the biochemical reaction.