All chemical reactions are theoretically reversible. However, many biological reactions are irreversible. Which factor(s) contribute to the irreversibility of biological reactions?

Concepts of Biology
1st Edition
ISBN:9781938168116
Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Publisher:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise
Chapter4: How Cells Obtain Energy
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 5RQ: Which of the following is not true about enzymes? a. They are consumed by the reactions they...
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All chemical reactions are theoretically reversible. However, many biological reactions are irreversible. Which factor(s) contribute to the irreversibility of biological reactions?

a. high energy requirements
b. product removal
c. state of chemical equilibrium
d. a and b
e. a, b, and c

Expert Solution
Introduction

Consider the conversion of a species 'A' to 'B'. This reaction takes place spontaneously , if energy gets released as A gets converted to B. These are exergonic reactions. If this reaction is spontaneous, then its reverse reaction (conversion of B to A)  wont happen spontaneously without any external help, as the reverse reaction would require energy. These are endergonic reactions.

If both the forward and reverse reactions can take place in a biological system, then these reactions are called reversible. If the reaction can only take place in one direction in a biological system, then these reactions are called irreversible.

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