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Ch. 8 - Energy and Enzymes: An Introduction to Metabolism
Chapter 8, Problem 2

What is a transition state? a. the shape adopted by an enzyme that has an inhibitory molecule bound at its active site b. the amount of kinetic energy required for a reaction to proceed c. the intermediate complex formed as covalent bonds in the reactants are being broken and re-formed during a reaction d. the enzyme shape after binding an allosteric regulatory molecule

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1
Identify the key elements in the reaction progress diagram: Reactants, Products, and the peak of the curve.
Understand that the peak of the curve represents the highest energy point, known as the transition state.
Recognize that the transition state is the intermediate complex formed as covalent bonds in the reactants are being broken and re-formed during a reaction.
Compare the given options with the definition of the transition state.
Select option c: 'the intermediate complex formed as covalent bonds in the reactants are being broken and re-formed during a reaction' as the correct answer.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Transition State

The transition state is a high-energy, unstable state that occurs during a chemical reaction. It represents the point at which reactants are transformed into products, characterized by the breaking and forming of bonds. This state is crucial for understanding reaction kinetics, as it determines the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
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Activation Energy

Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. It is the energy barrier that must be overcome for reactants to reach the transition state. The concept is essential in understanding how enzymes can lower this energy barrier, thereby increasing the rate of reactions in biological systems.
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Reaction Coordinate Diagram

A reaction coordinate diagram visually represents the energy changes during a chemical reaction. It plots the energy of the system against the progress of the reaction, illustrating the energy of reactants, products, and the transition state. This diagram helps in understanding the energy profile of a reaction, including the activation energy and the stability of intermediates.
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