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Electrolytic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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electrolytic

elec-trolyt-ic

🇺🇸 /ˌɪˌɫɛktɹəˈɫɪtɪk/ · 🇬🇧 /ɛlˌɛktɹəlˈɪtɪk/

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

chemical process

Electrolytic refers to a process involving the movement of ions in a solution due to an electric field. It is often used in electrolysis, where an electric current is used to drive a chemical reaction that typically would not occur spontaneously.

Synonyms

electrochemical, ionically conductive.

Examples of usage

  • Electrolytic cells are essential in electroplating.
  • The electrolytic decomposition of water produces hydrogen and oxygen.
  • Electrolytic processes are crucial in the production of metals.

Translations

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Quick facts about “electrolytic”

Electrolytic is a 3-syllable adjective (elec-trolyt-ic). It is pronounced /ˌɪˌɫɛktɹəˈɫɪtɪk/ in American English and /ɛlˌɛktɹəlˈɪtɪk/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 2 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #13,408 among the most common English words.

Origin of 'electrolytic'

The term 'electrolytic' is derived from the word 'electrolysis', which was first coined by the English chemist Michael Faraday in the early 19th century. The prefix 'electro-' signifies the relationship to electricity, while 'lysis' comes from the Greek word 'lysis', meaning 'to loosen' or 'to break apart'. Faraday's groundbreaking work established the basis for electrolytic processes in chemistry, leading to a broader understanding of the behavior of ions in solutions when subjected to electrical currents. As technology advanced, the application of electrolytic methods expanded into various fields, such as electroplating, battery design, and water purification. The continuous improvement and innovation in these applications highlight the importance of electrolytic chemistry in modern science.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,408, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.