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Fissile: meaning, definitions and examples

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fissile

 

[ ˈfɪs.aɪl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

nuclear materials

Fissile materials are capable of sustaining a nuclear fission chain reaction. These materials can be split into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy. They are essential for the operation of nuclear reactors and the development of nuclear weapons.

Synonyms

divisible, nuclear, splittable

Examples of usage

  • Uranium-235 is a commonly known fissile material.
  • Fissile isotopes are crucial for nuclear energy production.
  • Scientists study fissile materials to improve reactor safety.

Translations

Translations of the word "fissile" in other languages:

🇵🇹 físsil

🇮🇳 फिसाइल

🇩🇪 spaltbar

🇮🇩 fisil

🇺🇦 фісильний

🇵🇱 fissylny

🇯🇵 fissile (フィッシル)

🇫🇷 fissile

🇪🇸 fisible

🇹🇷 fisil

🇰🇷 핵분열성 (haekbunyeolseong)

🇸🇦 قابل الانشطار (qābil al-inshṭār)

🇨🇿 štěpný

🇸🇰 štiepny

🇨🇳 可裂变的 (kě lièbiàn de)

🇸🇮 fizibilen

🇮🇸 fissile

🇰🇿 бөлінетін (bölіnetіn)

🇬🇪 ფიცილური (piciluri)

🇦🇿 fissil

🇲🇽 fisible

Word origin

The term 'fissile' originates from the Latin word 'fissilis', which means 'capable of being split'. It was adapted in the context of nuclear science to describe materials that can undergo fission, the process of splitting an atomic nucleus to release energy. The modern usage of 'fissile' in nuclear physics became prominent in the mid-20th century as research on atomic energy and nuclear weapons advanced. The understanding of fissile materials is vital for both power generation and military applications, especially during the Cold War, when nations began to seek more effective nuclear reactions for both peaceful and aggressive purposes. As technology evolved, the significance of identifying and managing fissile materials has become essential for nuclear safety and non-proliferation efforts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,420, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.