Radiolysis
The chemical decomposition of a substance caused by ionising radiation.
Formula / equation
H₂O →(radiation) H· + OH·
Unit
Dimensionless
In depth
Radiation deposits far more energy than a chemical bond can hold, generating ions, excited states and highly reactive radicals. The radiolysis of water is responsible for most radiation damage in living tissue and produces corrosive conditions inside reactor coolant.
Examples in the real world
Hydroxyl radicals from water radiolysis attacking DNA; hydrogen build-up in stored radioactive waste.