Enzyme-substrate binding is a crucial process in biochemistry where an enzyme interacts with a specific substrate to facilitate a chemical reaction. The enzyme has a unique active site that fits the substrate like a key in a lock. This specificity ensures that enzymes only catalyze particular reactions, making them essential for various biological functions. When the substrate binds to the enzyme, it forms an enzyme-substrate complex. This interaction lowers the activation energy required for the reaction, allowing it to proceed more efficiently. After the reaction occurs, the products are released, and the enzyme is free to bind with new substrate molecules, continuing the catalytic cycle.