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Pyrolysis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pyrolysis

[paɪˈrɒlɪsɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chemical process

Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of materials at elevated temperatures in an inert atmosphere. It involves the change of chemical composition and the physical phase of the material.

Synonyms

carbonization, cracking, thermal decomposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pyrolysis

Pyrolysis describes the process of heating organic materials in the absence of oxygen to break them down into simpler compounds, typically used in chemical industries and biofuel production.

  • During pyrolysis, the biomass is converted into biochar, bio-oil, and syngas
thermal decomposition

Thermal decomposition is a general term for breaking down compounds into simpler substances by heating. It can be used in various contexts, including chemistry and materials science.

  • The thermal decomposition of calcium carbonate produces calcium oxide and carbon dioxide
carbonization

Carbonization is the process of converting organic materials into carbon or carbon-containing residues through pyrolysis. It is often used when talking about producing charcoal.

  • The carbonization of wood in a kiln produces high-quality charcoal
cracking

Cracking refers to a process in the petrochemical industry where larger hydrocarbon molecules are broken down into smaller, more useful molecules like gasoline and ethylene. It typically involves high temperatures and sometimes catalysts.

  • The cracking of crude oil is a critical step in turning it into gasoline and other fuels

Examples of usage

  • The pyrolysis of biomass produces biochar and bio-oil.
  • Plastic waste can be converted into fuel through pyrolysis.
  • The pyrolysis process is commonly used in the production of carbon black.
Context #2 | Noun

organic chemistry

In organic chemistry, pyrolysis is a method used to break down organic compounds by heating them in the absence of oxygen. This process can be used to study the structure of complex molecules.

Synonyms

pyrogenation, pyrolytic decomposition, thermolysis.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pyrolysis

used in scientific and industrial settings to describe the thermal decomposition of materials at high temperatures in an inert atmosphere.

  • Pyrolysis is a crucial process in the conversion of biomass into biochar.
  • The pyrolysis of plastics can result in the production of useful chemicals.
thermolysis

used broadly to describe the decomposition caused by heat, not limited to an inert atmosphere, and can be found in both scientific and more general literature.

  • Thermolysis occurs when compounds break down upon heating.
  • In fire conditions, thermolysis can quickly degrade the material.
pyrogenation

an older or less commonly used term, often found in historical scientific literature, referring to the generation or production of heat.

  • Early researchers studied pyrogenation processes to understand combustion better.
pyrolytic decomposition

used to emphasize the chemical breakdown aspect of pyrolysis, usually found in more detailed technical or scientific contexts.

  • The pyrolytic decomposition of organic material produces volatile gases.
  • Studying the pyrolytic decomposition of substances helps us understand their thermal stability.

Examples of usage

  • The researcher used pyrolysis to analyze the chemical structure of the compound.
  • Pyrolysis is often used in the study of polymers and biomolecules.

Translations

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Origin of 'pyrolysis'

The term 'pyrolysis' originated from the Greek words 'pyr' meaning fire and 'lysis' meaning separation. It was first used in the mid-19th century to describe the process of thermal decomposition. Pyrolysis has since become an important method in various industries for converting organic materials into valuable products.

See also: pyrogenation, pyromaniac, pyromaniacal, pyrotechnic, pyrotechnics, pyrotechny.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,421, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.