Isolysis is a rare term that refers to the splitting or decomposition of a chemical compound. Spelled with the prefix "iso" meaning "equal" and "lysis" meaning "loosening," the word is pronounced /aɪsəˈlaɪsɪs/. The first syllable of "iso" is pronounced with a long "i" sound, and the stressed syllable is the second syllable. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "-sis" suffix, which emphasizes the notion of separation or breakup.
Isolysis is a term used in chemistry to describe a type of chemical reaction in which a compound is decomposed into its constituent parts by the addition of an isolating agent or solvent. This process is typically carried out under specific conditions or using specific techniques in order to separate a desired compound from a mixture or to analyze the composition of a substance.
During isolysis, the isolating agent or solvent interacts with the compound of interest, causing it to break down into simpler molecules or ions. The isolysis reaction can be facilitated by factors such as heat, light, or the presence of catalysts, which increase the rate of decomposition. As a result of isolysis, the original compound is fragmented, and its components can be further studied or utilized.
Isolysis plays a crucial role in various disciplines of chemistry, including analytical chemistry, organic synthesis, and drug discovery. In analytical chemistry, isolysis is frequently employed to isolate and identify specific compounds present in a mixture, allowing for the determination of their quantity and purity. In organic synthesis, isolysis reactions are often used to break down complex molecules into simpler intermediates, enabling the construction of more intricate compounds. In drug discovery, isolysis helps in the isolation and extraction of active ingredients from natural sources.
Overall, isolysis is a vital process in chemistry that aids in the understanding, extraction, and manipulation of compounds, facilitating various applications across scientific fields.
Isohemolysis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "isolysis" is a compound of two Greek words: "iso", meaning "equal" or "same", and "lysis", meaning "loosening" or "dissolution". The combined term "isolysis" refers to the process of equal dissolution or decomposition.