photochemistry

noun

pho·​to·​chem·​is·​try ˌfō-tō-ˈke-mə-strē How to pronounce photochemistry (audio)
1
: a branch of chemistry that deals with the effect of radiant energy in producing chemical changes
2
a
: photochemical properties
the photochemistry of gases
b
: photochemical processes
photochemistry of vision
photochemist noun

Examples of photochemistry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Astronomers believe this breakdown leads to complex photochemistry in Titan’s atmosphere, where the products react with each other and with nitrogen. The Physics Arxiv Blog, Discover Magazine, 15 Jan. 2024 The planet is so hot, the processes that normally lead to the creation of sulfur dioxide shouldn’t be happening—which means that less common reactions, like photochemistry, are likely responsible. Dan Falk, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 July 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of photochemistry was in 1860

Dictionary Entries Near photochemistry

Cite this Entry

“Photochemistry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photochemistry. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

photochemistry

noun
pho·​to·​chem·​is·​try -ˈkem-ə-strē How to pronounce photochemistry (audio)
plural photochemistries
1
: a branch of chemistry that deals with the effect of radiant energy in producing chemical changes
2
a
: photochemical properties
the photochemistry of gases
b
: photochemical processes
the photochemistry of vision

More from Merriam-Webster on photochemistry

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