Reversible inhibitors differ from irreversible inhibitors because they:

  • A. Bind permanently and cannot be removed
  • B. Bind temporarily and can be removed
  • C. Permanently inactivate the enzyme
  • D. Change enzyme structure permanently

Explanation

A reversible inhibitor binds through weak interactions and detaches again, so activity returns when it is removed or outcompeted, which is how competitive and non competitive inhibitors behave. An irreversible inhibitor forms a covalent bond, as heavy metal ions and nerve gases do, and the enzyme is destroyed for good. The other three options all describe the irreversible case.

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