The word hydrolyze is spelled as "hʌɪˈdrɒlaɪz" using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "hʌɪ" is pronounced as "hi", followed by "ˈdrɒ" which is "druh" and "laɪz" which is "lyze". The word means to break down a substance using water molecules. The spelling can be confusing due to the silent "e" at the end, which is not pronounced. It is important to correctly spell scientific terms like hydrolyze to avoid misunderstanding in the field of science.
Hydrolyze is a verb that refers to the chemical process of breaking down a compound by using water molecules. It involves the reaction of a compound with water to produce two or more new substances. This process is commonly used in various fields, such as chemistry, biochemistry, and biology.
The process of hydrolysis occurs when water molecules interact with the bonds holding together the atoms in a compound. These bonds are cleaved, resulting in the separation of the original compound into its constituent parts or simpler compounds. Hydrolysis typically involves the addition of a hydroxyl group (OH) to one portion of the compound and a hydrogen atom (H) to another portion.
The process of hydrolyze can occur with different types of compounds, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. For example, in carbohydrate hydrolysis, polysaccharides such as starch or cellulose are broken down into monosaccharides like glucose or fructose. Similarly, protein hydrolysis breaks down proteins into amino acids, while fat hydrolysis breaks fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
Hydrolysis plays a crucial role in various biological processes, such as digestion, where enzymes hydrolyze complex food molecules into smaller, more easily absorbed forms. It is also essential in industrial processes, including the production of detergents, soaps, and pharmaceuticals.
In summary, hydrolyze is the chemical process of breaking down compounds through the addition of water, resulting in the formation of simpler substances. It is an important process in both natural and industrial settings, serving diverse purposes in various fields ranging from biology to chemistry.
To subject to hydrolysis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hydrolyze" is derived from two components: "hydro" and "lyze".
The prefix "hydro-" comes from the Greek word "hudor" which means "water". It is commonly used in scientific terms related to water and hydrogen.
The suffix "-lyze" comes from the Greek root "lusis" which means "a loosening" or "a breaking down". It is often used in scientific and technical terms to indicate "separation", "dissolution", or "decomposition".
Therefore, when combined, "hydrolyze" refers to a chemical reaction in which a compound is broken down or decomposed into simpler components due to the addition of water.