Why do enzymes make reactions hundreds of millions of times faster? Precise reaction sites hidden on protein surfaces

The enzyme molecules fold to form specific grooves, and the substrate will be positioned, stretched or polarized after entering, making it easier to cross the reaction energy barrier.

Raising temperature usually speeds up molecular motion, but too high a temperature can destroy protein structure. Enzymes have their own optimal temperature and pH windows.

Detergents, food processing, drug synthesis and biofuel production all use enzymes' high selectivity to reduce by-products and energy consumption.