Meaning & use
catalytically
Last updated
Meaning
adverbtechnicalchemistry
In a way that involves or is caused by a catalyst.
Grammar: Used to modify verbs or adjectives, e.g. 'react catalytically', 'catalytically active'.
Patterns
- react catalytically
- catalytically active
- catalytically converted
The substance breaks down catalytically in the presence of sunlight.
This catalyst works catalytically at room temperature.
The engine uses a catalytically coated filter to reduce pollution.
Common combinations
- catalytically active
- The metal is catalytically active in many industrial reactions.
- react catalytically
- These molecules react catalytically when exposed to the enzyme.
- catalytically converted
- The gas is catalytically converted into harmless substances.
- catalytically cracked
- Heavy oil is catalytically cracked to produce gasoline.
Word family
Commonly confused: catalytically or catalytic?
catalytically vs catalytic
Catalytic is an adjective (e.g., 'catalytic converter'), while catalytically is an adverb (e.g., 'react catalytically').
Practice
The chemical reaction proceeds ______ when a small amount of platinum is added.
Choose one answer.
The adverb 'catalytically' correctly modifies the verb 'proceeds'. 'Catalytic' is an adjective and would need a noun, 'catalyst' is a noun, and 'catalysis' is a noun.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “catalytically”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.