photodissociation
UK: ˌfəʊ.təʊ.dɪˌsəʊ.siˈeɪ.ʃən | US: ˌfoʊ.toʊ.dɪˌsoʊ.siˈeɪ.ʃən
n. The process in which a molecule is broken down into smaller components by the absorption of light.
The word "photodissociation" combines "photo-" (from Greek phōs, meaning "light") and "dissociation" (from Latin dissociare, meaning "to separate"). The term reflects a scientific process where light energy causes molecular bonds to break. The prefix "photo-" is widely used in scientific vocabulary (e.g., photosynthesis, photograph), while "dissociation" originates from chemistry and psychology, denoting separation. Together, they form a precise term for light-induced chemical decomposition.
Photodissociation of ozone in the atmosphere contributes to the formation of oxygen molecules.
The experiment studied the photodissociation rate of nitrogen dioxide under UV light.
In astrophysics, photodissociation regions are critical to understanding star formation.
Chlorine atoms released by photodissociation can catalyze ozone depletion.
The laser triggered photodissociation, splitting the compound into simpler fragments.