Catalyzed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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catalyzed
[ˈkæt.əl.aɪzd ]
Definition
chemical reaction
The term 'catalyzed' refers to the process of accelerating a chemical reaction by the presence of a substance known as a catalyst. A catalyst is not consumed in the reaction and can be used repeatedly. When a reaction is catalyzed, it often occurs at a faster rate or under milder conditions than it would without the catalyst. This process is crucial in various industrial applications, including the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. In biological systems, enzymes serve as catalysts for many vital reactions, facilitating metabolic processes.
Synonyms
accelerated, facilitated, promoted.
Examples of usage
- The enzyme catalyzed the breakdown of glucose.
- The reaction was catalyzed by the addition of sulfuric acid.
- In the lab, scientists catalyzed the reaction to increase the yield.
- The new catalyst significantly catalyzed the polymerization process.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Enzymes in our bodies are natural catalysts that help speed up vital chemical processes, like digestion.
- Catalyzed reactions typically require less energy, which means they can happen at lower temperatures.
- In industrial applications, catalysts save time and resources, making processes like fuel production more efficient.
Social Sciences
- In sociology, 'catalyzing change' refers to actions that trigger social movements or shifts within a community.
- Influential leaders often act as catalysts for social change, inspiring people to take action on important issues.
- Cultural events, like music festivals, can catalyze community spirit and togetherness among diverse groups.
Innovation
- The idea of catalyzing innovation suggests that new technologies can speed up economic growth and development.
- Start-up incubators function as catalysts for new businesses, providing resources and mentorship to help them thrive.
- Collaborative efforts in research can catalyze breakthroughs, leading to rapid advancements in fields such as medicine and technology.
Pop Culture
- Films often depict a character who catalyzes change within a group, propelling the narrative forward.
- In literature, a single event or character can catalyze the protagonist's journey, setting off a chain of events.
- Social media campaigns can catalyze movements and bring awareness to issues in mere moments, showcasing the power of digital communication.
Origin of 'catalyzed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'katalusis', meaning 'loosening' or 'dissolution'.
- It was first used in the context of chemistry in the 19th century as scientists began to understand chemical reactions better.
- The root 'catalyst' refers to a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed itself.
The word 'catalyze' is derived from the Greek word 'katalusis', meaning 'a dissolving'. It entered the English language in the early 19th century, particularly through the work of chemists who were attempting to explain various processes in organic chemistry. The idea of catalysis was further developed by scientists like J.J. Berzelius and Dmitri Mendeleev, who explored how certain substances could change the rate of reactions without being consumed. Over the years, the meaning evolved and was expanded beyond chemistry to include any process that precipitates change or accelerates an event, particularly in social or scientific contexts. As such, 'catalyzed' has come to symbolize not only a physical transformation in the realm of chemistry but also metaphorical changes in various fields.