De-cōm'po-sī'tion, n.

(-po-zĭsh'un), n. [From de and composition, q. v.; Fr. décomposition.]

1. The act of separating the constituent parts of a compound body or substance.
2. The state of being separated; separation into constituent parts; analysis; release from previous combinations; the decay or dissolution consequent on the removal or alteration of some of the ingredients of a compound, as the decomposition of wood, of rocks, &c.
3. Repeated composition; a combination of compounds. [Obs.]

Decomposition of forces, the same as resolution of forces. See RESOLUTION OF FORCES. — Decomposition of light, the division of it into the prismatic colors.