Definition

The process of breaking down a substance into smaller parts due to exposure to radiation.

Example

Radiolysis can lead to the formation of new chemical compounds in the presence of radiation.

Conversation

I was reading about how radiolysis can break down substances when exposed to radiation.

Really? I didn't know radiation could decompose materials like that.

Yeah, it's fascinating how radiolysis plays a role in various chemical reactions.

It is interesting! Science always has new surprises.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Radiolysis → It is formed from "radio-" (from Latin *radius*, meaning ray) and "lysis" (from Greek *lysis*, meaning to break apart). The word describes the process of breaking down substances using radiation, particularly through the action of rays.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rays' ('radio-') breaking things 'apart' ('lysis') — that's what radiolysis means.

Visually Confused Words