fusion-bomb
A scientist explains the principle of a fusion-bomb in a secure lecture hall.
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of nuclear bomb: "fusion-bomb" refers to a weapon that derives its explosive power from the fusion of atomic nuclei, typically isotopes of hydrogen such as deuterium and tritium. This process releases immense energy, making such bombs far more powerful than fission-based atomic bombs.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The development of the fusion-bomb marked a significant escalation in nuclear weaponry. (A bomb that uses nuclear fusion for its explosive force.)
- Scientists debated the environmental impact of testing a fusion-bomb in the atmosphere. (A hydrogen bomb or thermonuclear device.)
Advanced Usage
- "to be a fusion-bomb": to describe something as being extremely powerful or explosive in a metaphorical sense.
- The new policy was a political fusion-bomb, causing immediate controversy across the country. (A metaphorical use to indicate something highly impactful.)
Variants and Related Words
Fusion (n): the process of combining atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
- Nuclear fusion is the energy source of stars. (The fundamental process behind a fusion-bomb.)
Bomb (n): a container filled with explosive material used as a weapon.
- The bomb was defused before it could detonate. (A general term for an explosive device.)
Synonyms
Hydrogen bomb: a specific type of fusion-bomb that uses hydrogen isotopes.
- The hydrogen bomb is a more powerful version of the fusion-bomb. (A synonym focusing on the fuel used.)
Thermonuclear bomb: a bomb that uses high temperatures from a fission reaction to trigger fusion.
- The thermonuclear bomb relies on a fission primary to ignite the fusion secondary. (A synonym emphasizing the heat-based initiation.)
Related Idioms
- Drop a fusion-bomb: to reveal shocking or devastating news.
- The CEO dropped a fusion-bomb on the company by announcing mass layoffs. (A figurative phrase meaning to cause a major upset.)