The difference between hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis lies in their opposite chemical processes involving water:
- Hydrolysis is a decomposition reaction where large molecules (polymers) are broken down into smaller molecules (monomers) by the addition of water. Water molecules are consumed in this process, splitting the bonds between monomers. It is commonly used in biological digestion (breaking down proteins, lipids, carbohydrates).
- Dehydration synthesis (also called dehydration condensation) is a combination reaction where smaller molecules (monomers) are joined to form larger molecules (polymers) with the removal of water molecules. This process releases water as a byproduct and often requires energy. It is crucial in the biosynthesis of molecules such as disaccharides, polysaccharides, esters, and proteins.
In summary:
Aspect| Hydrolysis| Dehydration Synthesis
---|---|---
Reaction type| Breakdown (decomposition)| Building up (combination)
Water role| Water is added| Water is removed
Result| Large molecules → small molecules| Small molecules → large molecules
Energy| Usually releases energy| Usually requires energy
Biological significance| Digestion| Biosynthesis and polymerization
These two reactions are essentially reverse processes of each other. Hydrolysis breaks bonds using water, while dehydration synthesis forms bonds by removing water.
