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Catalytic: meaning, definitions and examples

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catalytic

 

[ ˌkætəˈlɪtɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

chemical reaction

Catalytic refers to the property of a catalyst, which is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. It is often used to minimize energy usage and enhance product yield in various industrial and laboratory processes.

Synonyms

accelerating, enhancing, facilitating.

Examples of usage

  • The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions in vehicles.
  • Scientists discovered a new catalytic process for synthesizing organic compounds.
  • Catalytic reactions are essential in refining petroleum.
Context #2 | Adjective

biological processes

In biological contexts, catalytic can refer to enzymes that facilitate biochemical reactions in living organisms. These enzymes are crucial for metabolism and various physiological functions.

Synonyms

biochemical, enzyme-catalyzed, metabolic.

Examples of usage

  • Enzymes serve as catalytic agents in metabolic pathways.
  • The catalytic activity of the enzyme is influenced by temperature.
  • Biocatalytic processes are increasingly used in sustainable chemistry.

Translations

Translations of the word "catalytic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catalítico

🇮🇳 उत्साही

🇩🇪 katalytisch

🇮🇩 katalitik

🇺🇦 каталітичний

🇵🇱 katalityczny

🇯🇵 触媒の

🇫🇷 catalytique

🇪🇸 catalítico

🇹🇷 katalitik

🇰🇷 촉매의

🇸🇦 تحفيزي

🇨🇿 katalytický

🇸🇰 katalytický

🇨🇳 催化的

🇸🇮 katalitičen

🇮🇸 katalýski

🇰🇿 каталитикалық

🇬🇪 კატალიტური

🇦🇿 katlayıcı

🇲🇽 catalítico

Etymology

The term "catalytic" originates from the early 19th century, deriving from the word "catalysis," which was first introduced by the Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius in 1835. The Greek root 'catalusis' translates to 'dissolution' or 'to loosen,' reflecting the process by which catalysts enable reactions to occur more efficiently. Catalysis has been fundamental in the development of various chemical industries, particularly in the production of fuels, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. The understanding and application of catalytic processes have grown significantly, leading to advancements in environmental science and sustainable practices.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,547 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.