Question

Explain the role of activation energy in a reaction. How does an enzyme affect activation energy?

Answer 1

Activation energy is the 'energy barrier' which must be overcome for a reaction to occur. It has nothing to do with the relative energies of the reactants and products of the reaction - hence it has nothing to do with whether the reaction is energetically favorable.

It has to do with how quickly the reaction occurs. If there is a high activation energy, the reaction still goes but slowly. If there is a lower activation energy, it goes quickly. Enzymes lower the activation energy or 'energy barrier' by a variety of different methods: sometimes they just bring reactants into proximity; other times, they force the reactants into physical postures and molecular configurations which are more reactive or more favorable for a certain reaction.

Answer 2

Wow, thank you so much, especially for the attachment!

Answer 3

You are especially helping me study for finals!