Final answer:
Many chemical reactions in the human body proceed in a predictable direction due to the path of least resistance. The alternate direction typically requires more energy. Factors influencing chemical reaction rates in human functioning will be considered.
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 example, 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. However, in the human body, many chemical reactions proceed in a predictable direction, either one way or the other, due to the path of least resistance. The alternate direction typically requires more energy.
Factors Influencing the Rate of Chemical Reactions
If you pour vinegar into baking soda, the reaction is usually instantaneous. But many chemical reactions take time. Various factors influence the rate of chemical reactions, but for human functioning, the most important factors will be considered here.