Final answer:
The chemical reactions A + B → C and C → A + B involve enzymes that can be different for each direction; however, both synthesis and breakdown can occur in the same cell. Enzymes function as biological catalysts, facilitating both catabolic and anabolic reactions by providing a pathway with lower activation energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the chemical reactions A + B → C and C → A + B:
A. The enzyme catalyzing the formation of C must be different from that catalyzing the breakdown of C. This statement is true because reactions controlled by different enzymes prevent a state of equilibrium, allowing for increased control over reaction rates.
B. The enzyme catalyzing the formation of C must be the same as that catalyzing the breakdown of C. This statement is false, as separate enzymes can be used for forward and reverse reactions.
C. Only one of the reactions could occur in a given cell or system. This statement is false, as both the synthesis and breakdown can occur within the same cell.
D. Both reactions must be occurring in an equilibrium situation. This statement is true, as equilibrium involves the continuous and simultaneous occurrence of both forward and reverse reactions.
E. Equilibrium is always achieved in a chemical reaction. This statement is false because it depends on the conditions presented; some reactions are shifted to favor the production or consumption of products.
F. Equilibrium can be prevented from occurring by constantly removing the product of either reaction. This statement is true, as the removal of a product can shift the direction of a reaction and prevent equilibrium.
G. An equilibrium, once established, cannot be disturbed. This statement is false; equilibrium can be disturbed by changing concentrations, temperature, pressure, or by adding a catalyst.
Enzymes play a critical role in biochemical reactions, acting as biological catalysts. They speed up reactions by providing an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy, and they are essential for metabolic processes, including both catabolic and anabolic reactions. An example of how enzymes work is by lowering the energy of the transition state in both the formation and breakdown of a compound.