hidrolizë

Hidrolizë is the chemical process where a molecule of water is used to break down a compound. This reaction typically involves the splitting of a bond in the compound, with one part gaining a hydrogen atom and the other gaining a hydroxyl group, both originating from the water molecule. The term "hydrolysis" literally means "water splitting" in Greek.

This process is fundamental in many biological and chemical systems. For instance, in digestion, complex molecules like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down into simpler units through hydrolysis. Enzymes often catalyze these reactions, speeding them up considerably. Examples include the breakdown of sucrose into glucose and fructose, or proteins into amino acids.

In industrial chemistry, hydrolysis is used in various manufacturing processes. It is involved in the production of soaps from fats and alkalis, and in the synthesis of certain polymers. The reverse reaction of hydrolysis is condensation, where water is removed to form a larger molecule. Understanding hydrolysis is crucial for comprehending many chemical transformations and biological functions.