The steady-state approximation is a method used in reaction kinetics to simplify the analysis of complex biochemical reactions by assuming that the concentration of intermediate species remains constant over time. This assumption allows researchers to focus on the rate of formation and consumption of these intermediates, making it easier to understand and predict reaction behavior in biological systems. The steady-state approximation is particularly useful in enzyme kinetics, where the formation of enzyme-substrate complexes can be treated as being in a steady state.
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