Definition

In a way that involves the chemical decomposition of organic materials through the application of heat in the absence of oxygen.

Example

The waste was treated pyrolytically to reduce its volume and toxicity.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new energy method they are using?

Yeah, I read that it works pyrolytically to convert waste into fuel.

It sounds so innovative!

I know, right? It's amazing how they can use heat to break things down.

Root Explanation

Pyrolytically → It is formed from "pyro-" (from Greek "pur", meaning fire) and "lytic" (from Greek "lytikos", meaning capable of loosening or dissolving) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner). The word "pyrolytically" refers to a process that occurs in a manner related to the decomposition or transformation of materials through the application of heat or fire.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fire' ('pyro-') causing something to 'loosen' or 'dissolve' ('lytic') — that's how pyrolytically describes a process involving heat.

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