What type of biomolecule are enzymes classified as?

Enzymes are classified as proteins because they are made up of long chains of amino acids that fold into specific three-dimensional structures. This structure is critical for their function, allowing them to catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required. Proteins, including enzymes, are essential for nearly all biological processes, including metabolism, signaling, and cellular repair. Their specificity and efficiency make them vital for maintaining the proper functioning of cells and the entire organism.

The other biomolecules listed—carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and lipids—serve different roles in biological systems. Carbohydrates primarily function as energy sources and structural components; nucleic acids are involved in the storage and transmission of genetic information; and lipids primarily serve as energy storage molecules and structural components of cell membranes. These roles distinguish them from proteins and specifically from enzymes, which are directly involved in facilitating biochemical reactions.