Question

A biochemical reaction will proceed in the direction as written if _______

Answer 1

A biochemical reaction will proceed in the direction as written if the Gibbs free energy change (∆G) is negative.

Step-by-step explanation:

In biochemical reactions, the Gibbs free energy change (∆G) determines the spontaneity and direction of the reaction. When ∆G is negative, it indicates that the products have lower free energy than the reactants. This implies that the reaction releases energy and is thermodynamically favorable. The negative ∆G signifies that the reaction can proceed spontaneously in the forward direction as written. Enzymes, catalysts in biological systems, accelerate reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the conversion, but they do not alter the overall thermodynamics or direction of the reaction.

A negative ∆G doesn’t necessarily mean the reaction will occur rapidly; it only indicates the thermodynamic favorability of the reaction proceeding in the forward direction. Ultimately, a negative ∆G represents the driving force for a reaction to occur spontaneously in the specified direction.

Correct answer: A biochemical reaction will proceed in the direction as written if the Gibbs free energy change (∆G) is negative.

Answer 2

The direction of a biochemical reaction is determined by the reaction quotient, the equilibrium constant, and the change in Gibbs free energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The direction in which a biochemical reaction proceeds is determined by several factors. One important factor is the value of the reaction quotient, Q, compared to the equilibrium constant, K. If Q < K, the reaction will proceed to the right as written. If Q > K, the reaction will proceed to the left as written. And if Q = K, then the reaction is at equilibrium.

Another important factor is the change in Gibbs free energy, ΔG. If ΔG < 0, it means that the reaction is spontaneous and will proceed in the forward direction as written. If ΔG > 0, the reaction is non-spontaneous and will not proceed in the forward direction. The magnitude of ΔG also indicates the extent to which the reaction will proceed.

Overall, the direction of a biochemical reaction is determined by the reaction quotient, the equilibrium constant, and the change in Gibbs free energy.