How do enzymes differ in their action from chemical catalysts?

Enzymes differ from chemical catalysts as they are highly specific and work only on certain substrates under specific conditions.

Enzymes are biological catalysts made up of proteins that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms. Unlike chemical catalysts, enzymes are highly specific in their action. This means they only catalyse specific reactions involving certain substrates. This specificity is due to the unique three-dimensional structure of the enzyme, which includes an active site that fits perfectly with its substrate, like a lock and key.

Chemical catalysts, on the other hand, are not specific and can catalyse a wide range of reactions. They work by lowering the activation energy of a reaction, making it easier for the reaction to occur. Chemical catalysts can be simple elements or complex compounds and are not limited to biological systems.

Another key difference is the conditions under which enzymes and chemical catalysts operate. Enzymes are sensitive to their environment and work best under specific conditions of temperature and pH. If these conditions are not met, the enzyme may denature, losing its shape and functionality. Chemical catalysts are generally more robust and can function under a wider range of conditions.

Furthermore, enzymes can be regulated by the cell through various mechanisms, such as competitive and non-competitive inhibition. This allows the cell to control the rate of certain reactions as needed. Chemical catalysts, however, cannot be regulated in this way.

In summary, while both enzymes and chemical catalysts serve to speed up reactions, they differ significantly in their specificity, operating conditions, and ability to be regulated. Understanding these differences is crucial in fields such as biochemistry and medicinal chemistry, where enzymes play a key role.