fractionation

noun5

1. •
   A separation process in which a certain quantity of a mixture is divided up into smaller quantities (fractions) in which the composition changes according to a gradient; an instance of this process.

   • Methane is separated from other hydrocarbons in a gas fractionation plant.
   • After several fractionations, we had a usable product.
2. •
   The division of a total dose of radiation into fractions.
3. •
   A policy in United States law of dividing communal Native American land into lots by person, which are then subdivided by any heirs to the land.

   • The key to any resolution of the problem of fractionation is a clear understanding of the responsibilities of the BIA with regards to managing both tribal and individual assets. — 1992
4. •
   A preliminary stage of encryption that divides each plaintext symbol into several ciphertext symbols.
5. •
   A form of hypnosis where the patient is made to enter and leave a trance state many times in quick succession.