Catalysis: meaning, definitions and examples

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catalysis

 

[ ˌkatəˈlɪsɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemistry

The acceleration or retardation of a chemical reaction by a substance that is not consumed in the reaction. Catalysis involves an increase in the rate of reaction without being consumed in the reaction itself.

Synonyms

acceleration, facilitation, promotion.

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Word Description / Examples
catalysis

Used in scientific and chemical contexts to describe the process where a substance (catalyst) speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed.

  • The enzyme acts as a catalyst in the biochemical reaction, a process known as catalysis.
  • Catalysis is vital in industrial processes like the production of fertilizers.
acceleration

Refers to the general idea of speeding something up, can be used in various contexts including physics, business, and everyday speech.

  • The car's acceleration was impressive.
  • We need to focus on the acceleration of our project timelines.
promotion

Commonly used in business and marketing to denote the act of advancing or advertising something, such as a product, service, or person. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if overly aggressive.

  • The company invested heavily in the promotion of their new product.
  • She received a promotion due to her hard work and dedication.
facilitation

Used when referring to making a process or action easier or smoother, often in context of meetings, workshops, or general assistance.

  • The facilitator did a great job at helping the team work efficiently.
  • Proper facilitation can ensure that all participants have a chance to contribute.

Examples of usage

  • The catalyst plays a key role in the catalysis of this reaction.
  • Catalysis is essential in many industrial processes.
  • The process of catalysis can significantly speed up chemical reactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "catalysis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catálise

🇮🇳 उत्प्रेरण

🇩🇪 Katalyse

🇮🇩 katalisis

🇺🇦 каталіз

🇵🇱 kataliza

🇯🇵 触媒作用

🇫🇷 catalyse

🇪🇸 catálisis

🇹🇷 kataliz

🇰🇷 촉매 작용

🇸🇦 تحفيز

🇨🇿 katalýza

🇸🇰 katalýza

🇨🇳 催化作用

🇸🇮 kataliza

🇮🇸 hvötun

🇰🇿 катализ

🇬🇪 კატალიზი

🇦🇿 kataliz

🇲🇽 catálisis

Etymology

The term 'catalysis' originates from the Greek word 'katalysis', meaning 'dissolution' or 'liquefaction'. The concept of catalysis has been known since ancient times, with early examples including the use of enzymes in fermentation processes. The modern understanding of catalysis has evolved through the work of scientists such as Berzelius and Ostwald, leading to its crucial role in various industrial processes and scientific advancements.

See also: biocatalyst, catalyst.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,851, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.