How does an enzyme affect the rate of a reaction?

A. It lowers the activation energy of the reaction, increasing the reaction rate.
B. It raises the activation energy of the reaction, decreasing the reaction rate.
C. It lowers the activation energy of the reaction, decreasing the reaction rate.
D. It raises the activation energy of the reaction, increasing the reaction rate.

Correct Answer:

Option A – It lowers the activation energy of the reaction, increasing the reaction rate.

Explanation

Enzymes lower the activation energy of a reaction, increasing the reaction rate.