Final answer:
Enzymes lower the activation energy required for chemical reactions, which causes the reactions to proceed at a faster rate. They bind to substrates to efficiently catalyze reactions, increasing the reaction's speed without affecting the overall energy yield or product stability. The correct option is B. The reaction proceeds at a faster rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reduction in activation energy by an enzyme has a significant effect on a chemical reaction. Enzymes are biological catalysts that increase the rate of a reaction by lowering the threshold energy required to initiate the reaction. This means that the reactant molecules require less energy to start reacting with each other, making the process more efficient. From the options provided, the correct answer to how the action of an enzyme affects a chemical reaction is B. The reaction proceeds at a faster rate.
Enzymes accomplish this by binding to the reactant molecules, also known as substrates, and holding them in a way that reduces the necessary activation energy. This often involves positioning substrates in close proximity and in the correct orientation to encourage bonding and the conversion to products. Contrary to increasing the rate, enzymes do not affect the overall energy yield of the reaction or the stability of the products. Also, they do not make the reaction less efficient; in fact, they greatly enhance the efficiency by accelerating reaction rates, which are crucial in sustaining life processes.
When an enzyme is not functioning or is absent, as mentioned in the provided information, the reaction either stops or proceeds much more slowly. Therefore, enzymes are vital for facilitating the myriad of biochemical reactions essential for an organism's survival. The correct option is B. The reaction proceeds at a faster rate.