FU′SION

Syn. Fusio , L. The liquefaction of solid bodies by the action of heat. The term AQUEOUS FUSION has been applied to the melting of salts in their combined water when heated; and the term IGNEOUS FUSION , to the liquefaction of bodies by heat alone. The ve els in which substances are fused are formed of various materials and shapes, according to the properties of the solid operated on, and principally with reference to the degree of heat required for its fusion. In every case the containing ve el should be capable of sustaining the proper degree of heat, without either melting or cracking, and should also be unacted on by the substances melted in them. See Crucible , Furnace , .