Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function, 7th Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073403717
ISBN 13: 978-0-07340-371-7

Chapter 2 - The Chemistry of Life - Study Guide - Testing Your Recall - Page 75: 13

Answer

catalyst, enzymes

Work Step by Step

Any substance that increases the rate of a reaction without being consumed by it is a catalyst. In the human body, enzymes serve this function. Catalysts are substances that temporarily bind to reactants and hold them in a favorable position for a reaction to occur. Catalysts speed up reactions by reducing the activation energy required. Enzymes are proteins that function as biological catalysts in the body. Enzymes are important because they allow for chemical reactions to occur at normal body temperature and conditions.
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