fotokeemilise

Fotokeemilise is a term of Latvian origin that translates to "photochemical" in English. It refers to chemical reactions that are initiated or influenced by light. These reactions involve the absorption of photons, which are packets of light energy, by molecules. This absorbed energy can then be used to break chemical bonds, rearrange atoms, or excite electrons to higher energy levels, leading to a chemical transformation.

A common example of a photochemical reaction is photosynthesis, the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create glucose and oxygen. Another everyday example is the fading of colors in fabrics or dyes when exposed to sunlight over time; this is a degradation process driven by light energy. In photography, the image formation on film or digital sensors relies on photochemical processes where light causes a change in a light-sensitive material.

Fotokeemilise reactions are utilized in various scientific and industrial applications. They are employed in photopolymerization, where light is used to cure or harden resins, commonly seen in 3D printing and coatings. The production of certain vitamins, like vitamin D in the skin, is also a photochemical process. Research in photochemistry continues to explore new applications, including solar energy conversion and photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. The specific wavelength and intensity of light are crucial factors determining the outcome and efficiency of these fotokeemilise reactions.