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photochemistry
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photochemistry

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A photochemical reaction is a chemical reaction initiated by the absorption of light energy. This absorption creates temporary excited states in molecules, altering their chemical and physical properties. These excited molecules can then undergo various transformations, such as breaking apart, rearranging, or transferring energy or particles to other molecules.

A key principle is the photochemical equivalence law, which states that one molecule reacts for each quantum of light absorbed. This law is fundamental to processes like photosynthesis, which sustains life on Earth, and is also involved in vision, vitamin D production, and the formation of ozone in the atmosphere. Photochemical reactions are also utilized in technologies like photography and semiconductor manufacturing.

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