Science glossary film: Fusion

The joining together of two or more distinct parts to make a unified whole. One example of fusion is when male and female sex cells join to form a zygote – which will eventually become a foetus. Or when atoms join together to make larger atoms during nuclear fusion. Fusion also occurs in engineering, such as when pieces of metal are welded together. This typically involves melting the edge and allowing the molten metal to mix. When the metal cools and solidifies, it forms a strong, permanent join.

One example of fusion is when male and female sex cells join to form a zygote – which will eventually become a foetus. Or when atoms join together to make larger atoms during nuclear fusion. Fusion also occurs in engineering, such as when pieces of metal are welded together. This typically involves melting the edge and allowing the molten metal to mix. When the metal cools and solidifies, it forms a strong, permanent join.