Precipitant

A precipitant is something that causes or accelerates the occurrence of an event or action. It acts as a trigger, hastening a reaction or change. This can apply to both physical and abstract situations, such as chemical reactions, political unrest, or personal decisions. The precipitant provides the necessary impetus or the critical element that sets a process in motion or intensifies an existing one. It's the catalyst, the instigator, the factor that pushes a situation to a new state.

Precipitant meaning with examples

• The sudden economic downturn acted as a precipitant for widespread social unrest. Job losses and financial insecurity fueled public anger, making people more receptive to protest movements and critical of government policies. The pre-existing tension within the society had found a focal point to express its grievances to the authorities.
• In the lab, the addition of hydrochloric acid served as the precipitant that caused the barium chloride and sodium sulphate to react. This produced barium sulphate. The appearance of a white solid confirmed that the two substances had undergone a change to create the insoluble precipitate, and the acid triggered the change.
• A leaked email proved a precipitant for the executive's resignation. The controversy surrounding its contents, exposing unethical conduct, pressured his superiors, and led to his departure to protect the organization's reputation. It fueled an internal investigation and public condemnation.
• His critical comment became a precipitant for their argument to escalate. What was only a minor disagreement soon escalated to name-calling and harsh exchanges. This initial spark, the poorly-considered statement ignited their simmering resentment and unleashed their frustrations.
• The unexpected tax hike served as the precipitant for the rebellion. The citizens, already burdened with various economic hardships, saw this as the last straw. It became a major event triggering strikes, street protests, and demands for the government to reconsider its legislation and protect its citizens.