What term refers to the ionization of a water molecule?

The term that refers to the ionization of a water molecule is radiolysis. In the context of radiation biology, radiolysis occurs when water molecules are ionized and dissociate into various reactive species, such as free radicals. This process is significant because when cells are exposed to ionizing radiation, they undergo radiolysis, leading to the formation of these highly reactive compounds, which can subsequently damage cellular components including DNA, lipids, and proteins.

Hydrolysis refers to the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water, while electrolysis involves the use of an electric current to drive a chemical reaction, typically breaking down substances into their component parts. Biolysis generally refers to the breakdown of organic matter by living organisms or biological processes, which is not specifically focused on the ionization or dissociation of water molecules. Thus, radiolysis is the most accurate term related to the ionization of water in the context of radiation exposure.