photoionization

noun

pho·​to·​ion·​i·​za·​tion ˌfō-tō-ˌī-ə-nə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce photoionization (audio)
: ionization (as in the ionosphere) of a molecule or atom caused by absorption of radiant energy
photoionize transitive verb

Examples of photoionization 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.
Something else that might be to blame for not all of Au Mic b’s outflows being observable is photoionization. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 15 Aug. 2023 The breathing zone will be monitored with a photoionization detector to screen for volatile organic compounds (in the work zone). al, 14 Jan. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of photoionization was in 1914

Dictionary Entries Near photoionization

Cite this Entry

“Photoionization.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/photoionization. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on photoionization

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!