Autocatalyses

/ˌɔːtəˈkætəlɪsiːz/ noun

Definition

Plural of autocatalysis; multiple instances of chemical reactions in which a product speeds up its own formation.

Etymology

From auto- (self) + catalysis (from Greek katalysis, dissolution). The plural form of a chemistry term where a substance catalyzes its own reaction.

Kelly Says

This is the chemistry equivalent of a chain reaction—the more product you make, the faster you make even more, which is why some reactions accelerate wildly on their own!

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