verb
- breaking down a chemical compound by reaction with water, typically with the aid of an acid, base, or enzyme
Usage: present participle of hydrolyse (British spelling); American spelling is hydrolyzing; chemistry term
Examples
- The enzyme is hydrolysing the protein into smaller amino acids.
- Hydrolysing starch with acid produces glucose.
- The reaction involves hydrolysing the ester bonds in the molecule.
- Water is hydrolysing the salt compound slowly over time.
- Scientists are hydrolysing cellulose to create biofuels.