Size reduction is the process of decreasing the physical dimensions of objects or materials by breaking them into smaller pieces. It is done by applying external forces to break larger particles into smaller ones. The main objectives of size reduction are to increase surface area for reactions, separate materials, improve handling and mixing. Some common size reduction methods are impact, compression, shear and attrition. Key factors that affect size reduction are the material's hardness, structure, abrasiveness, softening temperature and moisture content. Several theories describe the energy required for size reduction, including Rittinger's, Bond's and Kick's theories. Only about 10% of the total energy input is actually used to reduce particle size.