Which term describes something that causes an important event to happen?

The term "catalyst" is used to describe something or someone that accelerates or brings about a significant change or event. In various contexts, especially in chemistry, a catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a reaction without being consumed in the process. However, in a broader sense, a catalyst can refer to any agent that causes or ignites a change or action—often an important or transformative event. For example, a political figure might be described as a catalyst for social change, signifying their role in inspiring or initiating significant developments.

Understanding the nuance of this term helps recognize its application not just in scientific contexts but also in social, political, and personal arenas, where one element can trigger a series of consequential events.