Definition

A process in which a chemical compound breaks down into smaller parts when it reacts with water.

Example

During digestion, hydrolysis helps break down food into simpler molecules.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hydrolysis?

Yeah, isn't it the process where water helps break down compounds?

Exactly! It's really interesting how it works with things like starch.

Right, it turns starch into glucose through that chemical reaction.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hydrolysis → It is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to loosen or break down). The word describes the process of breaking down substances in the presence of water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'water' ('hydro-') being used to 'break down' ('lysis') substances — that's what hydrolysis means.

Visually Confused Words