Literary notes about catalyst (AI summary)
Writers deploy the word catalyst in multifaceted ways, using it both in its literal scientific sense and as a metaphor for transformative change. In some texts, it refers to a physical substance or technical component—fuel for advanced technology or a key chemical agent essential for reactions [1, 2, 3]—while in others it symbolizes the spark that prompts personal or societal transformation, such as precipitating a drastic career change or a reawakening of strength and passion [4, 5]. At times a person, organization, or even an idea is depicted as the catalyst that ignites broader shifts in thought, culture, or political realms [6, 7]. This dual use enriches narratives by blurring the lines between the concrete world of science and the abstract realm of human experience [8, 9].
- Now the primary determinant, catalyst or sensitizer of the growth of the long bones is the anterior pituitary.
— from The Glands Regulating Personality A Study of the Glands of Internal Secretion in Relation to the Types of Human Nature by Louis Berman - "You know we can build ships as good as the Lhari ships, but we don't know anything about the rare catalyst they use for warp-drive fuel.
— from The Colors of Space by Marion Zimmer Bradley - The catalyst used to effect this combination is the metal platinum in the form of fine wire gauze, since the action takes place only on the surface.
— from Creative Chemistry: Descriptive of Recent Achievements in the Chemical Industries by Edwin E. (Edwin Emery) Slosson - It had been a similar acknowledgement three years ago that had been the catalyst of his self declared quasi-retirement.
— from An Apostate: Nawin of Thais by Steven David Justin Sills - Lloyd had become the catalyst for Brook's resurgence of strength.
— from Scorched Earth: A Future History of Planet Earth by Walter D. Petrovic - We feel hopeful that our initiative may serve as a catalyst opening the way to new understanding of religion’s purpose.
— from One Common Faith by Bahá'í International Community - The leadership becomes the catalyst for terrorist action.
— from National Strategy for Combating TerrorismFebruary 2003 by United States. Executive Office of the President - There may be a catalyst here in this area which works in conjunction with your thought-processes and not mine.
— from The Alternate Plan by Gerry Maddren - Like a chemical reaction it requires an artistic catalyst, a muse.
— from La Divina Commedia di Dante: Complete by Dante Alighieri
