ScienceAugust 17, 2026
photocatalytic
foh-toh-kuh-TAL-ih-tik
Definition
Relating to a process where a chemical reaction is accelerated by the action of light, typically in the presence of a catalyst.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'phōs' (light) combined with the word 'catalytic,' which comes from the Greek 'katalysis' meaning 'dissolution' or 'loosening'.
In the news
The article uses this term to contrast the team's living biobot approach with synthetic microrobots that require light-driven catalysts to degrade pollutants.
Czech Scientists Create Living Microrobot Swarms That Trap Microplastics
Read the full article ↗Intelligent Living