fission

Definitions

The action of dividing or splitting something into two or more parts.

A nuclear reaction in which a heavy nucleus splits spontaneously or on impact with another particle, with the release of energy.

Examples

Nuclear fission is the process by which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts.

The scientist explained how the fission of uranium atoms releases a tremendous amount of energy.

Synonyms

splitting division cleavage separation fracture breakup schism

Antonyms

fusion union combination merger synthesis joining amalgamation