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The graph below shows the changes in free energy over the course of a chemical reaction, following two reaction mechanisms, one with and one without an enzyme.

The graph below shows the changes in free energy over the course of a chemical reaction-example-1
User CCP
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In this case, we need several concepts, that will be working in each question.

a) The thin, with a lower slope, is the enzymatic reaction. This is because enzyme enhances reactions, making them faster and more efficient.

b) In this case we have that an exothermic (tend to be spontaneous) reaction releases energy meanwhile an endothermic reaction absorbs energy, now there are some concepts here that must be taken into account enthalpy and free energy of Gibbs, when enthalpy is negative we have an exothermic reaction, in many cases, exothermic reactions are equivalent to exergonic reactions and these are characterized by a negative variation in the free energy of Gibbs, In this particular case, we have positive free energy of Gibbs, which makes it an endergonic reaction, which is equivalent to an endothermic reaction.

c) To obtain the net change in free energy (energy of Gibbs) we need the energy of the products minus the initial energy. Wich is approximately --> 263kJ-240kJ=23kJ

d) Is the same case we have the free energy of Gibbs as follows--->263kJ-250Kj=13kJ we can see that requires less energy than without the enzyme.

e) The activation energy is the one comprised from the sole of the reaction minus the free energy that is ---> 300Kj-263kJ= 37kJ

f) sane as the previous letter, we have --->275kJ-263kJ=12kJ, as we can see the activation energy is lower with an enzyme as is a more efficient process.

g) Enzymes are known as biological catalysts, and this is their benefit they enhance reactions, that is to say, reactions occur faster, at a higher rate, and with less energy.

User Pawandeep
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