catalytic
UK: ˌkætəˈlɪtɪk | US: ˌkætəˈlɪtɪk
adj. relating to or causing catalysis (the acceleration of a chemical reaction by a catalyst).
The word "catalytic" derives from Greek roots:
- "cata-" (κατά) means "down" or "thoroughly," often implying intensity or completion.
- "lyt-" (λύω) means "to loosen" or "dissolve."
- The suffix "-ic" turns the word into an adjective.
Originally, "catalysis" referred to the "dissolution" or "breaking down" of substances, but its meaning evolved in chemistry to describe the process where a catalyst speeds up a reaction without being consumed. The modern sense retains the idea of "loosening" chemical bonds to facilitate change.
The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions from car exhaust.
Enzymes play a catalytic role in metabolic reactions.
His speech acted as a catalytic force for social change.
The study focused on the catalytic properties of platinum.
Catalytic processes are essential in industrial chemistry.