Definition

The process in which a substance breaks down into simpler parts without interacting with other substances.

Example

Homolysis can occur in certain chemical reactions where bonds are broken.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of homolysis?

Yeah, I think it has to do with how substances break down.

Exactly! It's interesting how they can decompose without reacting with anything else.

For sure, I love learning about those kinds of processes!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Homolysis → It is formed from "homo-" (from Greek "homos", meaning same) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or break apart). The word describes the process of breaking a bond in a molecule to form two identical fragments.

Memory Tip

Think of 'same' ('homo-') and 'breaking apart' ('lysis') to remember that homolysis refers to the breaking of a bond to create two identical parts.

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