What is the chemical classification of an enzyme?

Enzymes are classified as catalysts because they are substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction without themselves undergoing any permanent change. They achieve this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This characteristic is essential in biological processes, as it allows reactions to proceed more efficiently within the body.

While acids and bases are terms used to describe substances based on their ability to donate or accept protons (hydrogen ions), they do not accurately describe the function of enzymes. Inhibitors, on the other hand, are substances that decrease the activity of enzymes, effectively blocking or slowing down the reactions they catalyze. Thus, the role of an enzyme as a catalyst is crucial in promoting chemical reactions, which is why it is correctly classified in this way.