Question

The concentrations of enzymes in cells are usually quite small. What is the biological significance of this fact?

Short answer

The small concentrations of enzymes in cells are biologically significant because it highlights their efficiency. They can catalyze a high number of reactions even in small quantities, allowing the body to conserve resources and regulate reactions to maintain homeostasis.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Role of Enzymes

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions in the body. They function by reducing the activation energy necessary for reactions to proceed.

Discuss the Implications of Enzyme Concentrations

The small concentration of enzymes in cells means that these catalysts are highly efficient. Even in small quantities, they are capable of catalyzing a large number of reactions.

Link to Biological Significance

The biological significance of this fact is multifold. First, the efficiency of enzymes allows the body to carry out vital functions while conserving resources. Second, their small concentrations ensure that reactions are regulated and do not proceed at a pace that could be harmful to the cell or organism. This is vital for maintaining homeostasis in biological systems.