Reactivity: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in scientific or technical contexts to describe how a substance or system responds to a stimulus.

• The reactivity of this chemical compound is very high.
• We need to consider the reactivity of the materials when designing the experiment.

Used to describe the ability of a person, system, or organization to respond quickly and effectively to something.

• Customer service's responsiveness is crucial for maintaining client satisfaction.
• The patient's responsiveness to the treatment was remarkable.

Used to describe the ability to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences. Can also refer to an emotional reaction.

• Her sensitivity to changes in temperature made her a great meteorologist.
• John showed great sensitivity when dealing with his friend's loss.

Describes the likelihood of being affected by something, often used in medical or risk assessment contexts. Usually carries a negative connotation.

• The study examined the susceptibility of different age groups to the virus.
• His susceptibility to peer pressure led him into trouble.

Used when describing a person's or a system's tendency to respond quickly and strongly to stimuli. Can be used in scientific, psychological, or technical contexts.

• The reactivity of the chemical compound made it highly volatile.
• Her high reactivity to stress can cause frequent anxiety attacks.

Refers to the ability to perceive and respond to the emotions or needs of others, or to slight changes in environments. Can be used in social, scientific, or emotional contexts.

• His sensitivity to others' feelings makes him a great friend.
• The equipment needs to have high sensitivity to detect such small changes in temperature.

Used to describe the awareness and expression of strong feelings, often in psychological contexts, referring specifically to the display of emotions.

• His emotionality was evident when he teared up during the movie.
• The therapist noted the patient's high emotionality during the session.

Describes how quickly and effectively someone or something reacts to changes, inputs, or requests. Commonly used in customer service, healthcare, and technology contexts.

• The app's responsiveness improved after the latest update.
• Her responsiveness to emails makes her an excellent employee.

General term used in various scientific fields to describe the speed and extent to which a substance or system responds to a change or stimulus.

• The chemical reactivity of the compound is very high.
• Reactivity in the human immune system varies from person to person.

Specific term used in the field of nuclear physics to describe how close a nuclear reactor is to a chain reaction process. This term is technical and used mainly by professionals in nuclear energy and physics.

• Monitoring nuclear reactivity is crucial for the safe operation of a nuclear reactor.
• The nuclear reactivity increased as more fuel rods were added.

Usually refers to how a nuclear system or material reacts to an external factor, such as radiation or a nuclear event. Can also be used in political contexts referring to a nation's reaction to a nuclear threat.

• The nuclear response to the radiation leak was swift and effective.
• The government discussed their nuclear response strategy in case of an attack.