Final answer:
Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to the active site of an enzyme, competing with the substrate for binding. This type of inhibition can slow down the rate of reaction but does not affect the maximal rate. At higher substrate concentrations, the normal maximum rate can still be reached.
Step-by-step explanation:
Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to the active site of an enzyme, competing with the substrate for binding. This type of inhibition can slow down the rate of reaction but does not affect the maximal rate. The inhibitor and substrate are in competition for the same active site, making inhibition concentration-dependent. At higher substrate concentrations, the normal maximum rate can still be reached.