Enzymes vs Catalysts

Similarities:

• Both are needed in minute quantities
• Both accelerate the rate of a reaction, but cannot initiate one
• Both of them bring about a decrease in the activation energy
• Both of them temporarily combine with the substrate molecule
• Both of them do not undergo any change in their composition and hence, can be used again and again
• Both of them do not alter the nature and quantity of the end products
• The reaction accelerated by both of them is reversible

Differences:

• Enzymes are complex proteins while catalysts are simple inorganic molecules
• Enzymes have a very high molecular weight while catalysts have a low molecular weight
• Enzymes catalyse only biological reactions
• Enzymes catalyse specific types of reactions while catalysts have a wide range
• Enzymes are significantly affected by temperature and pH, but not so in the case of catalysts
• Enzymes are regulated by specific substances called cofactors, but not so in the case of catalysts
• Enzymes can be easily inactivated but not so in the case of catalysts

Test your knowledge on the similarities and differences between enzymes and catalysts with this quiz! Enzymes and catalysts both play an important role in accelerating chemical reactions, but there are some key differences between the two. This quiz will challenge you to differentiate between the two and understand their unique characteristics. From molecular weight to reaction specificity, put your knowledge to the test and see how well you know the similarities and differences between enzymes and catalysts.