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Fission, also known as nuclear fission, is a nuclear reaction in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, often producing free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma rays), and releasing a large amount of energy. This process is the basis for nuclear power and nuclear weapons.

The fission process typically begins when a neutron collides with a fissile atomic nucleus, such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239. The nucleus absorbs the neutron and becomes unstable, causing it to split into two smaller nuclei, along with the release of additional neutrons and energy. These newly released neutrons can then go on to induce further fission reactions, creating a chain reaction.

The energy released in a fission reaction is significant, with a single fission event releasing approximately 200 MeV (megaelectronvolts) of energy. This energy is primarily in the form of kinetic energy of the fission fragments and the gamma rays, which can be converted into heat and then into electrical energy in a nuclear power plant.

Fission reactions are exothermic, meaning they release more energy than they consume. This makes them highly efficient for energy production. However, the process also produces radioactive waste, which requires careful management and disposal.

Fission is a critical process in the field of nuclear science and engineering, with applications ranging from power generation to medical isotope production. However, it also raises significant safety and environmental concerns, particularly related to the potential for nuclear accidents and the long-term storage of radioactive waste.