Definitions

1. verb

to cause or undergo a chemical reaction in which a molecule is cleaved into two parts by the addition of water.

“The enzyme catalyzed the hydrolysis of the sugar molecule, breaking it down into simpler compounds.”

2. verb

to break down or decompose a molecule using water.

“The acidic conditions of the soil caused the fertilizer to hydrolyze, releasing toxic chemicals into the environment.”

3. noun

the process of breaking down a molecule using water.

“The hydrolysis of the protein was studied to understand the underlying biochemical mechanisms.”