ionize

1. to dissociate into ions, as by dissolution in water or another polar solvent. (Physics, Chemistry)

imp. & p. p. Ionized; p. pr. & vb. n. Ionizing

1. To convert (an atom or molecule) into ions, e. g. by dissolving in water, by reaction with acid or alkali, or by interaction with ionizing radiation. See ionization. (Physics, Chemistry)