Abiotic degradation

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-000037",
  "term": "Abiotic degradation",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The breakdown of a chemical substance into simpler compounds through non-biological physical or chemical processes. These processes include hydrolysis (reaction with water), photolysis (breakdown by light), and oxidation, which occur naturally in the environment without the involvement of microorganisms. The rate of abiotic degradation is influenced by environmental factors such as pH, temperature, and the intensity of solar radiation.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2007, 79, 1153. 'Glossary of terms used in toxicology, 2nd edition (IUPAC Recommendations 2007)' on page 1155 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200779071153)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/abiotic-degradation/"
}