photoionization Definition
- 1the process of ionizing an atom or molecule by the absorption of a photon, usually from ultraviolet or X-ray radiation
- 2the ejection of an electron from an atom or molecule by the absorption of a photon
Using photoionization: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "photoionization" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Photoionization is used in mass spectrometry to identify and quantify chemical compounds.
Example
The photoionization process is important in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules in space.
Example
Photoionization is a key process in the formation of interstellar molecules.
Summary: photoionization in Brief
Photoionization [foh-toh-ahy-uh-nuh-zey-shuhn] is the process of ionizing an atom or molecule by the absorption of a photon, usually from ultraviolet or X-ray radiation. It is used in mass spectrometry to identify and quantify chemical compounds and is important in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules in space. Photoionization is also a key process in the formation of interstellar molecules.