Definition

A substance that helps a chemical reaction happen faster without being used up in the process, or something that causes a significant change or action to occur.

Example

The scientist added a catalyst to the reaction to speed it up.

Conversation

I read an article about how certain chemicals act as a catalyst in reactions.

That's interesting! I didn't know they could speed things up like that.

Yeah, it's fascinating how a small amount can make such a big difference.

Totally! It’s like how some events can be a catalyst for change in our lives.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Catalyst is formed from "cata-" (from Greek "kata", meaning down or against) and "lyst" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or dissolve). The word describes a substance that causes or accelerates a chemical reaction by lowering the activation energy, effectively 'loosening' the bonds in the reactants.

Memory Tip

Think of a catalyst as something that 'loosens' or speeds up a reaction, where 'cata-' means down or against, and 'lysis' means to loosen.

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