Question

What is photolysis?

Answer 1

Photolysis:

1. Photolysis refers to the breakdown of any particular substance in presence of light.
2. During this process, the substance decomposes forming products in the presence of light (Sunlight).
3. It is also called photodissociation.
4. In this process, inorganic compounds are dissociated or decomposed.
5. The main example of photolysis is the photolysis of water during photosynthesis in plants.
6. In the photolysis of water, water molecules are broken down into hydrogen ions and oxygen.
7. Photolysis of water is the most essential chemical reaction as it releases oxygen for entire biotic components.
8. Photolysis also plays an important role in various nutrient cycles.