The branch of chemistry that studies chemical reactions and changes caused by light radiation, especially ultraviolet and X-rays.
Compound of actino- (Greek aktis, 'ray') + chemistry (from al-kimiya). This field emerged in the 19th century as scientists began understanding how light could initiate chemical transformations.
Actinochemistry is literally what makes photosynthesis possible—plants use actinochemical reactions to convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, which is why all life on Earth ultimately depends on harnessing rays of light.
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