SPLITTING ATOM Meaning and
Definition
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Splitting atom refers to the process of breaking apart the nucleus of an atom, particularly in the context of nuclear fission. It involves the splitting of a large, unstable atomic nucleus into two or more smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of a large amount of energy and the emission of two or more high-speed neutrons. This process is typically initiated by bombarding a heavy atomic nucleus, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239, with a neutron.
The splitting of atoms is a fundamental process in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. In a nuclear power plant, controlled nuclear fission reactions are carried out to release a significant amount of energy, which is then harnessed to generate electricity. The energy released during the splitting of atoms can be explained by Einstein's famous equation, E=mc², where a small amount of mass is converted into a large amount of energy.
In the context of warfare, the splitting of atoms is at the heart of nuclear weapons. The release of a tremendous amount of energy in the form of a nuclear explosion is achieved by triggering an uncontrolled chain reaction of successive nuclear fissions. The destructive power of such weapons lies in the rapid and uncontrolled release of energy, causing devastating damage over a wide area.
The splitting of atoms has enormous implications for science, industry, and the world at large. Its potential for energy production and devastating weaponry has shaped the course of human history, sparking debates on topics such as nuclear power, proliferation, and disarmament.
Common Misspellings for SPLITTING ATOM
- aplitting atom
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- solitting atom
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- spl8tting atom
Etymology of SPLITTING ATOM
The term "splitting atom" refers to the process of nuclear fission, which involves breaking apart the nucleus of an atom. The word "atom" itself comes from the Greek word "atomos", meaning indivisible or uncuttable, as ancient Greeks believed that atoms were the smallest, indivisible units of matter.
The etymology of the word "atomos" can be further traced back to the Greek verb "temnein", meaning "to cut". "Atomos" was used by Greek philosophers such as Democritus and Leucippus to describe the fundamental building blocks of matter. However, it should be noted that the concept of splitting atoms, or nuclear fission, was unknown to the ancient Greeks.
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