Hydrolysis
noun
The process of breaking down a compound by reaction with water, often leading to the formation of new compounds.
In the lab, we studied the hydrolysis of proteins.
Usage tips
Neutral
water reaction, enzymatic hydrolysis, chemical breakdown
noun
A biochemical reaction where water is used to break chemical bonds, thus aiding in the digestion of food.
Hydrolysis is crucial for the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.
Usage tips
Formal
enzyme action, metabolic process, nutrient breakdown
noun
The process of breaking down a compound by reaction with water, often leading to the formation of new compounds.
In the lab, we studied the hydrolysis of proteins.
Usage tips
Neutral
water reaction, enzymatic hydrolysis, chemical breakdown
noun
A biochemical reaction where water is used to break chemical bonds, thus aiding in the digestion of food.
Hydrolysis is crucial for the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.
Usage tips
Formal
enzyme action, metabolic process, nutrient breakdown
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Context
Hydrolysis often occurs in biological systems, such as digestion.
During digestion, proteins undergo hydrolysis to become amino acids.
Pro Tip 2/3Formality
This term is more frequently used in scientific contexts rather than informal discussions.
When explaining a chemical reaction simply, one might say water breaks compounds down fully.
Pro Tip 3/3Common Mistakes
Do not confuse hydrolysis with dehydration synthesis, where water is removed rather than added.
Many learners confuse hydrolysis with dehydration, which has the opposite effect.
Pro Tip 1/3Context
Hydrolysis often occurs in biological systems, such as digestion.
During digestion, proteins undergo hydrolysis to become amino acids.
Pro Tip 2/3Formality
This term is more frequently used in scientific contexts rather than informal discussions.
When explaining a chemical reaction simply, one might say water breaks compounds down fully.
Pro Tip 3/3Common Mistakes
Do not confuse hydrolysis with dehydration synthesis, where water is removed rather than added.
Many learners confuse hydrolysis with dehydration, which has the opposite effect.
Pro Tip 1/3Context
Hydrolysis often occurs in biological systems, such as digestion.
During digestion, proteins undergo hydrolysis to become amino acids.
Pro Tip 2/3Formality
This term is more frequently used in scientific contexts rather than informal discussions.
When explaining a chemical reaction simply, one might say water breaks compounds down fully.
Pro Tip 3/3Common Mistakes
Do not confuse hydrolysis with dehydration synthesis, where water is removed rather than added.
Many learners confuse hydrolysis with dehydration, which has the opposite effect.
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