catalyst
KAT-uh-list
/ˈkætəlɪst/
A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change.
In nanotechnology, nanoparticles are often used as catalysts because their large surface area makes them incredibly efficient.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'katalusis', meaning 'dissolution' or 'loosening'. It was originally used for the 'loosening' of chemical bonds to allow a reaction to happen more easily.
Word relationships
- accelerant: Accelerant is often used for things that start fires; catalyst is more controlled and chemical.
- stimulus: Stimulus is more about a reaction to a signal, often in biology or psychology.
- inhibitor: A substance that slows down or prevents a chemical reaction.
Commonly confused with
- reagent: A reagent is consumed in a reaction; a catalyst is not.
Word family
- catalysis (noun): The process of accelerating a reaction with a catalyst.
- catalytic (adjective): Relating to or involving catalysis.
Collocations
- act as a catalyst
- chemical catalyst
- catalyst for change
Example sentences
- "The addition of a platinum catalyst allowed the reaction to proceed at room temperature." A chemistry experiment description.
- "The new law acted as a catalyst for economic growth in the region." A news article about social change.
Memory hook
A 'Catalyst' is like a 'Cattle-List' that gets the cows moving faster. Reaction speeder.
When not to use
In general conversation, it means a person or event that causes change; in science, it must be a physical substance.
Fun facts
- The catalytic converter in your car uses precious metals like platinum to turn toxic gases into less harmful ones.
Related words
Explore more words
catalyze, precipitate, accelerate, galvanize, ferment, enzyme
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