Question

Why is it unlikely that nonenzymatic catalysts operate by preferentially binding the transition state?

Answer 1

• Enzymes differ from ordinary chemical catalysts in reactionrate, reaction conditions, reaction specificity, and control.• The unique physical and chemical properties of the activesite limit an enzyme’s activity to specific substrates andreactions.• Some enzymes require metal ions or organic cofactors.Key Concepts 11.2• An enzyme provides a lower‐energy pathway fromsubstrate to product but does not affect the overall freeenergy change for the reaction.