Definitions of nuclear reaction
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(physics) a process that alters the energy or structure or composition of atomic nuclei
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types:
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chain reaction
a self-sustaining nuclear reaction; a series of nuclear fissions in which neutrons released by splitting one atom leads to the splitting of others
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decay, disintegration, radioactive decay
the spontaneous disintegration of a radioactive substance along with the emission of ionizing radiation
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endoergic reaction
a nuclear reaction occurring with absorption of energy
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exoergic reaction
a nuclear reaction accompanied by the evolution of energy
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fission, nuclear fission
a nuclear reaction in which a massive nucleus splits into smaller nuclei with the simultaneous release of energy
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fusion, nuclear fusion, nuclear fusion reaction
a nuclear reaction in which nuclei combine to form more massive nuclei with the simultaneous release of energy
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spallation
(physics) a nuclear reaction in which a bombarded nucleus breaks up into many particles
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alpha decay
radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus that is accompanied by the emission of an alpha particle
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beta decay
radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus that is accompanied by the emission of a beta particle
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cold fusion
nuclear fusion at or near room temperatures; claims to have discovered it are generally considered to have been mistaken
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thermonuclear reaction
a nuclear fusion reaction taking place at very high temperatures (as in the sun)
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type of:
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action, activity, natural action, natural process
a process existing in or produced by nature (rather than by the intent of human beings)
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