TED-Ed: Activation energy: Kickstarting chemical reactions - Vance Kite

Chemical reactions in the body require activation energy to proceed. Enzymes, which are proteins, help by lowering this energy, making reactions faster and more efficient. The video introduces the concept of the MODS Squad, a team of enzymes that use different strategies to facilitate reactions: microenvironment, orientation, direct participation, and straining bonds. These strategies help substrates reach their transition state more easily, ensuring that reactions occur swiftly and with less energy input.

What is activation energy and why is it important for chemical reactions?

Explain the concept of the transition state in a chemical reaction. What happens during this state?

Describe the role of enzymes in chemical reactions. How do they affect activation energy?

What are the four strategies used by the MODS Squad enzymes to speed up reactions?

How do the different enzymes in the MODS Squad contribute to the overall reaction process?