'Fission' means splitting one thing up into parts.
'Fusion' means joining some parts together to make one thing.
Fission is the splitting of heavy atomic nuclei, releasing energy, while fusion is the combining of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, also releasing energy. Fission is utilized in nuclear reactors and weapons, whereas fusion powers stars and is seen as a potential energy source for the future. Both processes fundamentally alter atomic nuclei but operate on opposite principles.
;