How do enzymes interact with other molecules to affect a chemical reaction?

Question

Responses

freely bind with any molecules that come near the enzyme
freely bind with any molecules that come near the enzyme

bind molecules using stronger covalent bonds instead of weaker ones
bind molecules using stronger covalent bonds instead of weaker ones

hold molecules in specific orientations to allow for chemical bonding
hold molecules in specific orientations to allow for chemical bonding

break down to release energy to be used in binding molecules

Answer 1

The correct response is:

hold molecules in specific orientations to allow for chemical bonding.

Enzymes act as catalysts by lowering the activation energy of a reaction and facilitating the conversion of substrates into products. They do this by binding to specific molecules (substrates) at their active sites, holding them in precise orientations that enhance the likelihood of a chemical reaction occurring. This interaction helps break or form chemical bonds more efficiently.