Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

What role do enzymes play in biological reactions?

1. Storing genetic information

2. Providing structural support

3. Speeding up the rate of reactions by lowering activation energy

4. Protecting the cell from toxins

The correct answer is: Speeding up the rate of reactions by lowering activation energy

Enzymes serve a critical role in biological reactions by speeding up the rate of these reactions through a process known as lowering the activation energy. Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy that reactants need to undergo a chemical reaction. By reducing this energy barrier, enzymes make it easier for reactions to occur at a faster pace, which is essential for sustaining life processes. Enzymes act as biological catalysts, meaning they facilitate chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. This catalytic action allows cells to carry out complex biochemical processes efficiently at the temperatures and conditions typically found in biological systems. The other roles mentioned, such as storing genetic information, providing structural support, and protecting the cell from toxins, are functions associated with other biological molecules or cellular structures, not enzymes. Enzymes are specifically tuned to bind substrates and convert them into products, which is fundamental to metabolism and various cellular functions.