- The separation of a molecular entity into two or more molecular entities (or any similar separation within a polyatomic molecular entity). Examples include unimolecular heterolysis and homolysis, and the separation of the constituents of an ion pair into free ions.
- The separation of the constituents of any aggregate of molecular entities.
In both senses dissociation is the reverse of association.
Source:
PAC, 1994, 66, 1077. 'Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)' on page 1107 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199466051077)