Enzyme Catalysis and Reaction Kinetics

Enzyme Catalysis and Transition State Energy

• Transition State (\Delta G^{\ddagger}):

  • Defined as an intermediate state where bonds are breaking and forming, representing the highest energy point on the reaction pathway.
  • Also referred to as a thermodynamic barrier, transition state energy, or energy of activation (E_a or \Delta G^{\ddagger}).
  • Enzymes work by lowering this transition state energy (\Delta G^{\ddagger} or E_a).
  • This reduction means less free energy is required to get from the reactant state to the product state.

• Impact of Enzymes on Reaction Energy Diagram:

  • An enzyme catalyst effectively lowers the