= Solution
The catalytic <serine residue> supplies a <nucleophile>: its side-chain oxygen attacks the carbonyl carbon of the <beta-lactam> ring. This generates a tetrahedral intermediate, followed by opening of the ring and formation of a covalent <acyl-enzyme intermediate>. Subsequent attack by activated <water> hydrolyzes that intermediate and regenerates the <enzyme>. \b[The <serine residue> performs covalent catalysis and is regenerated, rather than being consumed as a reagent.]
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