Dissociation \Dis*so`ci*a"tion\ (?; 106), n. [L. dissociatio: cf. F. dissociation.]

1. The act of dissociating or disuniting; a state of separation; disunion.

It will add infinitely dissociation, distraction, and confusion of these confederate republics. --Burke.

2. (Chem.) The process by which a compound body breaks up into simpler constituents; -- said particularly of the action of heat on gaseous or volatile substances; as, the dissociation of the sulphur molecules; the dissociation of ammonium chloride into hydrochloric acid and ammonia.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)