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Is it possible for reactions in opposite directions to occur simultaneously in a metabolic pathway?

User Dr M L M J
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Final answer:

Chemical reactions can proceed in either direction, but many reactions in the human body follow a predictable path of least resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

In theory, any chemical reaction can proceed in either direction under the right conditions. Reactants may synthesize into a product that is later decomposed. Reversibility is also a quality of exchange reactions. For instance, A + BC → AB + C could then reverse to AB + C → A + BC. This reversibility of a chemical reaction is indicated with a double arrow: A + BC ⇌ AB + C.

In the human body, many chemical reactions do proceed in a predictable direction, either one way or the other. You can think of this more predictable path as the path of least resistance because, typically, the alternate direction requires more energy.

User Sina Karvandi
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