Platinum(IV) Oxide

Present at every hydrogenation reaction yet consumed by none. Platinum(IV) oxide — Adams catalyst — exists quietly as a black powder in the reaction vessel, advancing the transformations of others while never being diminished itself. Before reaction an oxide, upon contact with hydrogen reduced to platinum black, thereafter functioning as an unwavering catalyst. A sage in a dark coat who understands better than anyone the paradox of promoting change while remaining unchanged.