active and inert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "active and inert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing substances, elements, or systems that have both active (reactive) and inert (non-reactive) properties. Example: "In the chemical reaction, the active and inert components played crucial roles in determining the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The more you learn about the vast expanses of built retail infrastructure — active and inert — the more you wonder whether, perhaps, enough is enough.

The New York Times - Magazine

Symanczyk et al. used Ag and Au as active and inert electrodes, respectively.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Computer simulations are performed for a generic cubic→tetragonal martensitic transformation in a multilayer system consisting of alternating active and inert layers.

Acta Materialia

Based on a flexible two-steps fabrication method and the combination of active and inert materials, binary encoding micropillar arrays and joint-like cantilever microstructure have been easily fabricated.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

In the case of roller compaction, in which mixtures of active and inert powders are fed via a screw to counter-rotating rolls, drawn into the nip region and compacted under hydrostatic and shear stresses, variation in density of the roller compacted material has been commonly observed.

Computers & Chemical Engineering

The combination of active and inert ingredients, as marketed and used, is called a formulation (U.S. EPA 2006b).

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Coke deposition in the catalytic fast pyrolysis of biomass includes active coke and inert coke, which promote or inhibit the formation of hydrocarbons.

Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis

By leaching out the reactive components from AuCu and AuAl alloys, unsupported NPG with so-called active CuO and inert Al2O3 residues were generated, characterized by an open interconnected network architecture with a narrow ligament size distribution.

Journal of Catalysis

The as-prepared sorbents consisted of active CaO and inert support materials that could be Al2O3, Ca12Al14O33 or Ca9Al6O18, depending on calcium and aluminum precursors used during the preparation process.

Chemical Engineering Science

However, the relevant exposure to humans is the commercial product, which contains a mixture of active and inactive (inert) ingredients.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Additionally, all pesticide compounds (conventional actives, antimicrobials, and inert ingredients) are classified by whether or not they have food-use tolerances or tolerance exemptions.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing elements or substances, ensure the context clearly defines what constitutes "active" and "inert". For instance, in chemistry, "active" might refer to reactivity, while "inert" indicates a lack of reactivity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "inert" substances are completely devoid of any effect. Even inert ingredients in a formulation can influence the overall properties or behavior of the active components.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "active and inert" functions as a compound adjective used to describe components or elements within a system. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically correct. The phrase is often used to highlight a contrast in properties, such as reactivity or functionality.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

85%

News & Media

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "active and inert" is a grammatically correct compound adjective primarily used in scientific and technical contexts to differentiate between components based on their level of activity or reactivity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While the phrase itself is relatively uncommon, it serves an important function in clearly defining the contrasting properties of elements within a system. When using this phrase, it's important to define the context to prevent misinterpretations about the properties of "inert substances". Alternatives like "reactive and non-reactive" may be appropriate depending on the specific meaning you are trying to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reactive and non-reactive

Focuses specifically on the chemical reactivity aspect, a common context for "active and inert".

dynamic and static

Emphasizes the difference in movement or change versus stability, broadly analogous to activity.

vigorous and passive

Highlights the contrast in energy and engagement levels.

lively and dormant

Suggests a state of activity versus a temporary suspension of activity.

energetic and quiescent

Emphasizes the presence or absence of energy and motion.

operative and inactive

Highlights the contrast between something working and something not working.

functional and non-functional

This alternative underscores the difference in operational functionality.

working and idle

Suggests a contrast in activity levels, particularly in mechanical or operational contexts.

responsive and unresponsive

This alternative focuses on the ability to react or respond to stimuli.

engaged and detached

Emphasizes the degree of involvement and interaction.

FAQs

What does "active and inert" mean in the context of chemical ingredients?

In the context of chemical ingredients, "active" refers to the ingredient responsible for the intended effect, while "inert" refers to ingredients that are not intended to have a direct effect but may serve as solvents, carriers, or stabilizers. However, "inert ingredients" can sometimes have unintended effects.

How can I use "active and inert" in a sentence?

You can use "active and inert" to describe components of a mixture or system, such as: "The pesticide formulation contains both active and inert ingredients." Or, "The catalyst consists of active sites on an inert support material".

What are some synonyms for "active and inert" in a scientific context?

In scientific writing, you might use "reactive and non-reactive", "dynamic and static", or "functional and non-functional" as alternatives to "active and inert", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always safe to assume that "inert" ingredients are harmless?

No, it is not always safe. Although "inert ingredients" are not intended to have a primary effect, they can sometimes interact with active ingredients or have their own unintended toxicological or environmental impacts. Therefore, their safety should be carefully evaluated.