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pyrolysis

[ pahy-rol-uh-sis ]

noun

, Chemistry.
  1. the subjection of organic compounds to very high temperatures.
  2. the resulting decomposition.


pyrolysis

/ ˌpaɪrəʊˈlɪtɪk; paɪˈrɒlɪsɪs /

noun

  1. the application of heat to chemical compounds in order to cause decomposition
  2. chemical decomposition of compounds caused by high temperatures
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Derived Forms

  • pyrolytic, adjective
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Other Words From

  • py·ro·lyt·ic [pahy-r, uh, -, lit, -ik], adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrolysis1

First recorded in 1885–90; pyro- + -lysis
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Example Sentences

Pyrolysis is the process of heating organic matter without oxygen—which can turn something like a medical gown made from petroleum into a bunch of tinier, useful chemicals.

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