Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
Which elements are most commonly involved in nuclear fusion?
Hydrogen isotopes, such as deuterium and tritium, are typically involved in nuclear fusion.
Why is fusion considered a potential energy source for the future?
Fusion could provide a virtually limitless supply of energy with minimal environmental impact, as it produces little to no radioactive waste.
What is the primary challenge in achieving nuclear fusion?
The primary challenge is attaining and maintaining the extremely high temperatures and pressures needed for fusion.
What is a tokamak?
A tokamak is a device designed to confine hot plasma using magnetic fields in the shape of a torus, used in fusion research.
Where does nuclear fusion naturally occur?
Nuclear fusion naturally occurs in the cores of stars, including the Sun.
What are the byproducts of nuclear fusion?
The primary byproducts of nuclear fusion are helium and energy in the form of heat.
How does fusion compare to fission in terms of safety?
Fusion is considered safer than fission because it cannot have runaway reactions and produces significantly less radioactive waste.
What is the Lawson Criterion?
The Lawson Criterion is a condition that defines the necessary conditions of temperature, pressure, and confinement time required for a fusion reaction to be self-sustaining.
Why is achieving net energy gain from fusion challenging?
Achieving net energy gain is challenging because the energy required to initiate and sustain fusion currently exceeds the energy produced.
What role does the ITER project play in fusion research?
The ITER project is an international effort to develop a large-scale nuclear fusion reactor to demonstrate the feasibility of fusion as a power source.
What is inertial confinement fusion?
Inertial confinement fusion involves compressing fuel pellets using high-energy lasers or ion beams to initiate fusion reactions.
How does the Sun sustain nuclear fusion?
The Sun sustains nuclear fusion through gravitational force and high temperatures and pressures, fusing hydrogen into helium.
What are some potential environmental benefits of fusion energy?
Fusion energy could greatly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and emit no air pollutants or greenhouse gases.
What is a stellarator?
A stellarator is a device that uses twisted magnetic fields to confine plasma and attempt to achieve controlled nuclear fusion.