fission

/'fiʃn/

Thân thiện

A biologist observes the fission of an amoeba under a microscope.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A nuclear reaction in which a massive atomic nucleus splits into smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy: This is the primary meaning in physics, referring to processes like those in nuclear reactors or atomic bombs.
   • A form of asexual reproduction in which a single-celled organism divides into two or more approximately equal parts: This is the primary meaning in biology, describing how organisms like bacteria or protozoa reproduce.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Physics):
  • Nuclear power plants generate electricity through the process of fission.
  • The energy released by the fission of uranium atoms is immense.
• Noun (Biology):
  • Binary fission is a common method of reproduction for bacteria.
  • The amoeba underwent fission, resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Advanced Usage

• "Nuclear fission": The complete term for the physical process.
  • The discovery of nuclear fission paved the way for both nuclear energy and weapons.
• "Binary fission": The complete term for the biological process where one cell divides into two.
  • During binary fission, the bacterial DNA replicates before the cell splits.

Variants and Related Words

• Fissionable (adj): Capable of undergoing nuclear fission.
  • Uranium-235 is a fissionable material.
• Fissile (adj): Synonymous with fissionable in physics; also means easily split or divided.
  • The treaty aimed to control the trade of fissile materials.

Synonyms

• Physics: Nuclear splitting, atomic splitting.
• Biology: Division, splitting, asexual reproduction.

Related Phrases

• "Chain reaction": A series of fissions where neutrons released by one fission cause further fissions.
  • A controlled chain reaction is essential for a nuclear reactor to function.
• "Fission product": The smaller atomic fragments resulting from nuclear fission.
  • The safe disposal of radioactive fission products is a major challenge.

Related Idioms

(Note: 'Fission' is a technical term and is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions. The following phrases use the concept metaphorically.) - "To cause fission": To cause a dramatic split or division within a group. - The controversial policy threatened to cause fission within the political party.

Học thuật

Noun

1. a nuclear reaction in which a massive nucleus splits into smaller nuclei with the simultaneous release of energy
2. reproduction of some unicellular organisms by division of the cell into two more or less equal parts

Từ đồng nghĩa

• nuclear fission