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Enzymes play an important role in the body's metabolism - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 9 - 2021
Question 9
Enzymes play an important role in the body's metabolism. (i) What is an enzyme? (ii) Explain the underlined word.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Enzymes play an important role in the body's metabolism - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 9 - 2021
Step 1
What is an enzyme?
Answer
An enzyme is a type of protein that acts as a catalyst in biochemical reactions. It accelerates chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required, allowing the reaction to proceed more quickly. Enzymes are crucial for various metabolic processes in living organisms.
Step 2
Explain metabolism.
Answer
Metabolism refers to all the chemical reactions that take place within the body or a cell. This includes processes that break down nutrients to produce energy (catabolism) and processes that utilize energy to build cellular components (anabolism). Metabolism is essential for maintaining life and supporting various bodily functions.