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Catalytic: meaning, definitions and examples

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catalytic

 

[ˌkætəˈlɪtɪk ]

Definitions

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Greek 'katalusis,' meaning 'a breaking down,' which reflects the idea of speeding up change.
  • It entered the English language in the early 19th century, initially used in chemistry to identify substances that triggered reactions.

Science

  • In chemistry, catalysts are essential because they lower the energy needed for reactions, which allows them to occur faster.
  • Enzymes, a type of catalyst found in living organisms, are crucial for biological processes such as digestion and respiration.

Industrial Applications

  • The catalytic converters in cars help reduce harmful emissions by accelerating chemical reactions that convert toxic gases into less harmful ones.
  • In the production of fuels and chemicals, catalysis plays a key role in improving yield and efficiency, making processes more environmentally friendly.

Environmental Impact

  • Catalytic processes are important in developing sustainable technologies, including renewable energy sources and waste management systems.
  • Research into catalyst materials aims to create more efficient reactions that minimize energy consumption and reduce pollutants.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, transformational characters often serve as 'catalysts,' driving the story forward and initiating change for others around them.
  • Songs and stories about friendships often highlight how someone can be a catalyst for personal growth, encouraging others to become their best selves.

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

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.