Enzymes are classified as what?

Enzymes are classified as catalysts that increase the rate of chemical reactions because they facilitate biochemical reactions without being consumed in the process. They work by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, which allows the reaction to proceed more quickly and efficiently. This catalytic function is essential in biological systems where reactions need to occur at a rate sufficient to sustain life.

Substrates refer to the specific reactants that an enzyme acts upon, while products are the substances formed as a result of the enzyme-catalyzed reaction. Reagents generally refer to any substance that is used in a chemical reaction but do not specifically indicate the function of facilitating the reaction as enzymes do. Thus, the designation of enzymes as catalysts highlights their unique role in promoting and accelerating biochemical processes.