What is the Difference Between Chemical and Biochemical Reactions?

The main difference between chemical and biochemical reactions lies in the context and the catalysts involved. Here are the key differences:

Context: Chemical reactions involve the conversion of one or more reactants into different products, regardless of the surroundings. In contrast, biochemical reactions involve the transformation of one molecule to a different molecule inside a living organism.
Catalysts: Chemical reactions are catalyzed by inorganic catalysts, while biochemical reactions are catalyzed by enzymes, which are organic compounds that facilitate and speed up chemical reactions inside living organisms.
Participants: Chemical reactions typically involve inorganic compounds and elements, while biochemical reactions involve organic compounds such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.

In summary, chemical reactions involve the transformation of substances through the interaction of various inorganic compounds and elements, while biochemical reactions are specific chemical reactions that take place inside living organisms and involve organic compounds.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Chemical and Biochemical Reactions?

Comparative Table: Chemical vs Biochemical Reactions

Here is a table comparing the differences between chemical and biochemical reactions:

Feature	Chemical Reactions	Biochemical Reactions
Definition	Processes where one or more reactants are converted into one or more products.	Transformations of one molecule to a different molecule inside living organisms.
Participants	Typically involve inorganic compounds and elements, as well as organic compounds.	Involve organic compounds such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids.
Catalysts	Catalyzed by inorganic catalysts.	Catalyzed by enzymes.
Location	Occur outside of living organisms.	Occur inside living organisms.
Types	Discrete reactions with a single catalyst involved in the process.	A series of reactions, often involving multiple enzymes.
Metabolism	Not part of a cell's metabolism.	Part of a cell's metabolism, which includes anabolism (synthesis of complex molecules) and catabolism (breakdown of complex molecules).

In summary, chemical reactions involve the transformation of substances and can occur outside of living organisms, while biochemical reactions take place inside living organisms and involve the transformation of specific organic compounds. Additionally, chemical reactions are catalyzed by inorganic catalysts, whereas biochemical reactions are catalyzed by enzymes.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.