electrolysis

[ ih-lek-trol-uh-sis, ee-lek- ]

noun

1. Physical Chemistry. the passage of an electric current through an electrolyte with subsequent migration of positively and negatively charged ions to the negative and positive electrodes.
2. the destruction of hair roots, tumors, etc., by an electric current.

electrolysis

/ ɪlɛkˈtrɒlɪsɪs /

noun

1. the conduction of electricity by a solution or melt, esp the use of this process to induce chemical changes
2. the destruction of living tissue, such as hair roots, by an electric current, usually for cosmetic reasons

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrolysis¹

First recorded in 1830–40; electro- + -lysis

Word History and Origins

Origin of electrolysis¹

C19: from electro- + -lysis

Example Sentences

The company, based at Port Kembla, an industrial hub south of Sydney, is using a familiar process known as electrolysis, which involves passing electricity through water to split it into hydrogen and oxygen.

From BBC

Green hydrogen employs a completely different production method, called electrolysis.

From Los Angeles Times

Electrochemical reactions -- chemical transformations that are caused by or accompanied by the flow of electric currents -- are the basis of batteries, fuel cells, electrolysis, and solar-powered fuel generation, among other technologies.

From Science Daily

Jiao's tandem CO2 electrolysis produces acetate and ethylene.

From Science Daily

When added to the electrolysis chamber, all five biochar varieties reduced the power needed to convert water to hydrogen.

From Science Daily