How do inhibitors affect chemical reactions?

Inhibitors are substances that slow down or stop a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

Key points:

1. Effect on reaction rate:
   • Inhibitors decrease the rate of the reaction by interfering with the reactants or the reaction pathway.
2. Mechanism:
   • They may block active sites in enzymes (for biochemical reactions).
   • They may react with reactants or catalysts, preventing them from participating efficiently.
3. Difference from catalysts:
   • Catalysts increase the reaction rate, while inhibitors decrease it.
4. Types of inhibitors (in biochemistry):
   • Competitive: Compete with the reactant for the active site.
   • Non-competitive: Bind elsewhere, changing the enzyme’s shape.
5. Industrial relevance:
   • Inhibitors are used to prevent corrosion, slow spoilage, or control unwanted reactions.