photoionize
/ˌfoʊtoʊˈaɪənaɪz/
verb
- To cause an atom or molecule to lose an electron by absorbing light or other electromagnetic radiation.
- Scientists use lasers to photoionize atoms in experiments on quantum physics.
- When ultraviolet light hits the gas, it can photoionize the atoms and produce a plasma.
- In the upper atmosphere, sunlight can photoionize gas molecules, creating charged particles.