the act of cleaving or splitting into parts.

Also called nuclear fission. Physics . the splitting of the nucleus of an atom into nuclei of lighter atoms, accompanied by the release of energy. Compare fusion ( def. 4 ) .

Biology . the division of an organism into new organisms as a process of reproduction.

Physics . to undergo fission.

Physics . to cause to undergo fission.

noun

atomic reaction , atom smashing , dividing , division , nuclear fission , parting , severance , splitting the atom , thermonuclear reaction , breaking , reaction , scission , splitting