Hydrolysis, chemical decomposition of a substance by water. The
hydrogen and oxygen atoms of water combine with the atoms or
groups of atoms of the hydrolyzed substance to form new
compounds. Hydrolysis is speeded by heat and pressure or by
mixing an acid or base with the water. Hydrolysis is important
in the manufacture of many substances. Corn syrup is produced by
acid hydrolysis of corn starch. Soap is made by alkaline
hydrolysis of fats. Other substances made by hydrolysis are
fatty acids, alcohols, and glucose. You Might Also Like Once
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