Word
catalytic
Phoneticscat·alyt·ic
US/ˌkætəˈɫɪtɪk/
UK/kˌætɐlˈɪtɪk/
Definition
adj. describing something that makes a change or a reaction happen much faster. It is often used for chemicals or for people who start big changes.
adj. relating to or acting as a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed. In a figurative sense, describes an agent that precipitates significant change or development.
Examples
“The new chemical has a catalytic effect on the reaction.”
“The arrival of the new CEO proved to be catalytic, sparking a complete overhaul of the company's outdated technology.”
“While the primary reagent is stable at room temperature, the introduction of a catalytic amount of platinum causes an immediate and vigorous exothermic response.”
Examples
simple
“The new chemical has a catalytic effect on the reaction.”
contextual
“The arrival of the new CEO proved to be catalytic, sparking a complete overhaul of the company's outdated technology.”
complex
“While the primary reagent is stable at room temperature, the introduction of a catalytic amount of platinum causes an immediate and vigorous exothermic response.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'catalytic converter' in automotive contexts or 'catalytic effect' in social and scientific contexts.
Real-World Examples
“He noted that precisely controlling the local reaction environment around the catalyst surface can significantly improve catalytic activity.” “For instance, many enzymes have metals in their catalytic sites, where the chemical reactions occur.” Domain
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/catalytic