Q. How do enzymes differ from other catalysts?

 Answer- 

Enzymes differ from other catalysts in several significant ways:

Nature: Enzymes are primarily organic compounds, specifically proteins, while many other catalysts can be inorganic substances. This distinction makes enzymes bio-catalysts, tailored for biological processes.

Molecular Weight: Enzymes are typically high molecular weight globular proteins, whereas non-enzymatic catalysts are often low molecular weight compounds.

Specificity: Enzymes exhibit high specificity, meaning they act on specific substrates to produce particular products, leading to fewer by-products. In contrast, many non-enzymatic catalysts are less specific and can produce a variety of products, sometimes resulting in unwanted residues.

Reaction Rates: Enzymes generally accelerate reactions much faster than non-enzymatic catalysts. They can increase reaction rates several times compared to the typically slower rates of inorganic catalysts.

Optimal Conditions: Enzymes function effectively under mild conditions, such as physiological pH and temperature, while many other catalysts may require extreme conditions like high temperature and pressure.

Types: Enzymes can be classified into activation enzymes and inhibitory enzymes, while catalysts can be categorized as positive and negative catalysts.