Learn Glossary biochemistry

Activation energy

Energy introduced into reactant molecules to activate them to the transition state so an exothermic reaction can take place.

The minimum energy that must be supplied to reactants for a chemical reaction to proceed. Enzymes lower activation energy, increasing the rate at which biochemical reactions occur in the body.

How one textbook covers it

  • Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism, 8th ed. (Gropper)Glossary

    The minimum energy that must be supplied to reactants for a chemical reaction to proceed. Enzymes lower activation energy, increasing the rate at which biochemical reactions occur in the body.

Related terms

Enzymes, Transition state