De*com`po*si"tion (?), n. [Pref. de-
(in sense 3 intensive) + composition: cf. F.
décomposition. 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.