Fragmentation refers to the process where a larger entity is broken into smaller, disconnected parts. This can occur in various contexts, such as in ecology, where habitats become fragmented due to human activities like urban development, affecting wildlife and biodiversity. In computing, fragmentation happens when files are stored non-contiguously on a disk, leading to slower access times. In social contexts, fragmentation can describe the division of communities or groups into smaller factions, often resulting in a lack of cohesion. This can be seen in political landscapes where differing ideologies lead to fragmented parties, making it challenging to achieve consensus on important issues.