catalytic

/,kætə'litik/ Cách viết khác : (catalytical) /,kætə'litik/
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catalytic

A scientist observes a catalytic reaction in a glass beaker.

Definition

AdjectiveRelating to, causing, or involving catalysis. Catalysis is the process of increasing the rate of a chemical reaction by adding a substance (a catalyst) that is not consumed in the reaction.

Usage

The adjective "catalytic" is used to describe something that causes or relates to a significant change or acceleration of a process, often by initiating or facilitating it without being fundamentally altered itself. It is most commonly used in scientific contexts (chemistry, biochemistry) but can also be used metaphorically.

Examples
  • The catalytic converter in a car uses precious metals to reduce harmful emissions.
  • Enzymes have a catalytic function in biological systems, speeding up metabolic reactions.
  • Her speech served as a catalytic event, inspiring a wave of community action.
  • The discovery acted as a catalytic force for further scientific innovation.
Advanced Usage
  • Catalytically (adverb): In a catalytic manner; by means of catalysis.
    • The enzyme acts catalytically to break down the substrate.
  • Metaphorical Use: Describing a person, event, or idea that triggers a significant change or series of events.
    • The economic crisis was the catalytic moment for political reform.
Variants and Related Words
  • Catalyst (noun): The substance or agent that causes catalysis. In a broader sense, a person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
    • Platinum is a catalyst in many industrial processes. She was the catalyst for the team's success.
  • Catalyze (verb): To cause or accelerate a reaction or process by acting as a catalyst.
    • The new policy aimed to catalyze economic growth.
  • Catalysis (noun): The process or action of catalysis.
    • The reaction proceeds via acid catalysis.
Synonyms
  • Stimulative: Tending to stimulate or incite activity.
  • Triggering: Causing something to happen.
  • Facilitative: Making an action or process easier.
  • Accelerative: Increasing the speed or rate of something.
Antonyms
  • Inhibitory: Tending to slow down or prevent a process.
  • Retarding: Delaying or holding back progress.
  • Suppressive: Tending to suppress or stop activity.
catalytic

A scientist observes a catalytic reaction in a glass beaker.

Adjective
  1. relating to or causing or involving catalysis
    • catalytic reactions