Here's a breakdown:
* Enzyme: A biological catalyst, a protein (or sometimes RNA) that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
* Substrate: The molecule that the enzyme acts upon.
* Product: The molecule that results from the enzyme-catalyzed reaction.
Think of it like this:
* Enzyme: A key that fits a specific lock.
* Substrate: The lock that the key fits into.
* Product: The action that happens when the key is turned in the lock (like opening a door).
The enzyme binds to the substrate at a specific site called the active site. This binding brings the substrate molecules into the correct orientation for the reaction to occur, and the enzyme lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. This results in the formation of a product molecule.
Example:
* Enzyme: Lactase
* Substrate: Lactose (milk sugar)
* Product: Glucose and galactose (simpler sugars)
Lactase breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, which are then easier for the body to absorb.
