Explain the functions of enzyme

Question

Looking through my txt book & still not finding wat im looking for

Answer 1

I just want to add 2 things to Mark's answer:

 

(1) Enzymes are examples of catalysts, which are chemicals that accelerate reactions, but are not changed by the reaction.

 

(2) Enzymes are also proteins.  (Not all catalysts are proteins.)

Answer 2

From google:

First, the basic function of an enzyme is to increase the rate of a reaction. Most cellular reactions occur about a million times faster than they would in the absence of an enzyme. Second, most enzymes act specifically with only one reactant (called a substrate) to produce products.