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

Derived Forms

• pyrolytic, adjective

Other Words From

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyrolysis¹

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

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.

From Popular-Science