Fission
Noun
Definition: The process of splitting or dividing a cell into two or more cells.
Synonyms: Division, Splitting
Antonyms: Fusion, Merging
- Fission is an essential process for growth and reproduction of cells.
- Nuclear fission is used as a source of energy in power plants.
- Picture cells dividing and splitting into multiple cells during fission.
Verb
Definition: To undergo or cause a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts.
Synonyms: Divide, Split
Antonyms: Fuse, Unite
- Uranium-235 is capable of fission, producing large amounts of energy.
- The experiment aims to fission the atomic nucleus and study the resulting fragments.
- Imagine atoms splitting apart into smaller parts during nuclear fission.
Etymology:
Late 19th century, from Latin 'fissionem' (nominative fissio), from 'findere' meaning "to split".
Historical Usage:The term "fission" was coined in the late 19th century to describe the process of splitting atoms and cells.
Related Idioms:
"Nuclear fission"
Explanation:Referring to the process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing energy.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'fission' with 'fusion'.
Explanation:Fission is the splitting of the nucleus of an atom, while fusion is the merging of two atomic nuclei. They are opposite processes in terms of nuclear reactions.