How do enzymes catalyze reactions?

Enzymes are biological catalysts. They catalyze reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, thus increasing the rate of chemical reaction. This process involves three main steps:

1. Binding between substrate and enzyme - The enzyme has a specific active site where it binds to the substrate. The shape and chemical properties of the enzyme’s active site are complementary to that of the substrate, allowing them to fit together like a lock and key or through an induced fit model. The binding of the substrate and the enzyme’s active site results in the formation of an enzyme-substrate complex. This interaction also stabilizes the substrate and positions it in a way that facilitates the chemical reaction.
2. Reaction is catalyzed - When the binding between the substrate and the enzyme is complete, the enzyme catalyzes the conversion of the substrate into the product or products of the reaction. An enzyme may catalyze the reaction three different mechanisms:
   1. It may bring reactive parts of the substrate close together, increasing the chances of a chemical reaction. 
   2. It may create an optimal environment that favor the reaction with specific temperature, pH, and other conditions
   3. It may act as a scaffold or template that stabilizes the reaction’s transition state, facilitating its conversion to the product.
3. Products are released - When the chemical reaction is complete, the enzyme releases the product or products of the reaction. The products diffuse away from the active site while the enzyme remains unchanged and capable of catalyzing further reactions with new substrate molecules.