hydrolyse Definition
to undergo or cause to undergo a reaction with water, typically the breaking of a bond in a molecule using water.
Using hydrolyse: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hydrolyse" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The enzyme hydrolyses starch into glucose.
Example
The chemical reaction hydrolyses the ester into an acid and an alcohol.
hydrolyse Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with hydrolyse
the process of breaking down a compound into its constituent parts using water and an acid catalyst
Example
The lab technician used acid hydrolysis to break down the protein into its amino acids.
the process of breaking down a compound into its constituent parts using water and a base catalyst
Example
Base hydrolysis is commonly used in the production of soap from fats and oils.
the process of breaking down a compound into its constituent parts using water and an enzyme catalyst
Example
Enzymatic hydrolysis is used in the digestion of food in the human body.
Summary: hydrolyse in Brief
'Hydrolyse' [hahy-drol-ahyz] is a verb that means to react with water, often resulting in the breaking of a bond in a molecule. It is commonly used in chemistry and biochemistry, as in 'The enzyme hydrolyses starch into glucose.' Hydrolysis can be catalyzed by different substances, such as acid, base, or enzymes, leading to phrases like 'acid hydrolysis,' 'base hydrolysis,' and 'enzymatic hydrolysis.'