Hydrolyzed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hydrolyzed
[haɪˈdrɒl.aɪzd ]
Definition
chemical reaction
Hydrolyzed refers to the process of breaking down a compound by reaction with water. In chemistry, hydrolysis involves the cleavage of bonds in the presence of water and is an essential reaction in various biological and chemical processes. For instance, the hydrolysis of esters forms acids and alcohols. This term is widely used in biochemistry and organic chemistry, particularly regarding the digestion of nutrients and the metabolism of drugs.
Synonyms
broken down, decomposed, dissolved.
Examples of usage
- The protein was hydrolyzed into amino acids.
- DNA is hydrolyzed to release nucleotide units.
- The ester hydrolyzed to produce an acid and an alcohol.
- Enzymes can hydrolyze substrates effectively.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, hydrolyzed substances can form new compounds, impacting various reactions.
- Enzymatic hydrolysis occurs when enzymes, like those in the digestive system, help break down food.
- The process is crucial in industries producing simpler, more digestible forms of nutrients, such as protein powders.
Food Industry
- Hydrolyzed proteins are widely used in protein supplements and sports nutrition for better absorption.
- In food processing, hydrolysis can enhance flavors, making soy sauce and vinegar through fermentation.
- Hydrolyzed starches are used in the production of sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup.
Health and Nutrition
- Some people prefer hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion, particularly those with allergies or sensitivities.
- Hydrolyzed collagen is marketed for skin health, as it is thought to improve elasticity and hydration.
- There's ongoing research into how hydrolyzed formulas for infants can reduce the risk of allergies.
Environment
- Hydrolysis processes are utilized in waste management, breaking down organic materials into simpler compounds.
- This process plays a role in the natural cycle of ecosystems, helping in nutrient recycling in soil.
- Innovations in hydrolysis can aid in creating biofuels through the breakdown of biomass.
Origin of 'hydrolyzed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek roots 'hydro', meaning water, and 'lysis', meaning to break down.
- First used in the early 19th century, it highlights the role of water in chemical reactions.
- Related terms include 'hydrolysis', which describes the overall reaction that involves breaking bonds in water.
The term 'hydrolyzed' comes from the combination of two Greek words: 'hydro,' meaning water, and 'lysis,' meaning to break. The use of the word in the context of chemical reactions dates back to the early 19th century, when scientists began to explore the role of water in chemical processes. As the field of chemistry evolved, the concept of hydrolysis became crucial for understanding how compounds interact in aqueous solutions. Hydrolysis is not just limited to inorganic compounds; it plays a vital role in organic chemistry and biochemistry, particularly in the digestion of macromolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. The significance of hydrolyzed forms of substances has increased with advancements in pharmaceuticals and biochemistry, where hydrolyzed compounds are often used for enhanced bioavailability and efficacy.