The term "splitting atom" describes the process of breaking apart an atomic nucleus. Synonyms for this term include nuclear fission, atom cracking, atomic disassembly, and atomic fragmentation. Another commonly used term is "atomic splitting". While the term splitting atom is often associated with nuclear power, it's also often associated with nuclear bombs. The term itself is derived from the process that powers the sun. When scientists in the early 20th century began to study this process, they soon realized it could be harnessed for energy. Today, splitting atoms is an important source of energy for various countries across the globe.