Definition

To heat a substance in the absence of oxygen to cause it to break down chemically.

Example

The researchers decided to pyrolyze the organic waste to produce biochar.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever seen how they pyrolyze waste materials to create energy?

Yeah, I read about it! It's a pretty cool process.

I think it's amazing how they can pyrolyze things that would usually just go to landfills.

Absolutely! It really helps in reducing waste and generating power.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pyrolyze → It is formed from "pyro-" (from Greek "pur", meaning fire) and "lyze" (from Greek "lyzein", meaning to break down or loosen). The word "pyrolyze" means to break down or decompose organic material using heat, typically in the absence of oxygen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fire' ('pyro-') breaking down materials ('lyze') — that's how pyrolyze means to decompose using heat.

Visually Confused Words