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Decomposition - Dictionary Definition and Overview |
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Decomposition : (noun)
1: the analysis of a vector field [syn: vector decomposition]
2: in a decomposed state [syn: disintegration]
3: (chemistry) separation of a substance into two or more
substances that may differ from each other and from the
original substance [syn: decomposition reaction]
4: the organic phenomenon of rotting [syn: decay]
5: (biology) decaying caused by bacterial or fungal action
[syn: rot, rotting, putrefaction]
Based on WordNet 2.0
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Decomposition : \De*com`po*si"tion\, n. [Pref. de- (in sense 3
intensive) _ composition: cf. F. d['e]composition. Cf.
Decomposition.]
1. The act or process of resolving the constituent parts of a
compound body or substance into its elementary parts;
separation into constituent part; analysis; the decay or
dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of
some of the ingredients of a compound; disintegration; as,
the decomposition of wood, rocks, etc.
2. The state of being reduced into original elements.
3. Repeated composition; a combination of compounds. [Obs.]
Decomposition of forces. Same as Resolution of forces,
under Resolution.
Decomposition of light, the division of light into the
prismatic colors.
Based on WordNet (r) 2.0 (August 2003)
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