Enzymes

The sum of all chemical reactions in a cell, including energy-requiring anabolic and energy-releasing catabolic processes.

Builds complex molecules from simpler ones; requires energy (endergonic).

Breaks down complex molecules into simpler ones; releases energy (exergonic).

Energy of motion associated with movement of molecules or objects.

Stored energy due to position or structure.

Potential energy stored in chemical bonds that can be released in reactions.

Energy available to do work; negative ΔG = spontaneous (exergonic), positive ΔG = non-spontaneous (endergonic).

Energy needed to reach the transition state so bonds can break/form.

Unstable, high-energy configuration of reactants during a reaction.

Protein catalyst that speeds reactions by lowering activation energy.

Specific reactant an enzyme acts upon.

Region on an enzyme where substrate binds and reaction occurs.

Active site changes shape slightly to fit substrate and catalyze efficiently.

Enzyme control by molecule binding at a site other than the active site.

Binds and increases enzyme activity by improving substrate binding.

Binds and decreases enzyme activity by altering shape.

Inorganic ion (Fe²⁺, Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺) required for enzyme function.

Organic helper molecule (ATP, NAD⁺, vitamins) aiding catalysis.

Competes with substrate for the active site.

Binds elsewhere, changing enzyme shape and reducing activity.

End product inhibits an early enzyme to prevent overproduction.

Loss of enzyme structure and function due to pH or temperature change.

Substance that speeds a reaction without being consumed.

Transfers electrons or hydrogen atoms between molecules.

Transfers functional groups between molecules.

Splits molecules using water.

Breaks bonds without using water.

Rearranges atoms within a molecule.

Joins two molecules with new bonds (requires ATP).

Study of energy transformations in biological systems.