Nuclear fusion

Nuclear fusion

Nuclear fusion is the process where 2 small nuclei combine to form 1 large nucleus. This process releases a lot of energy only if the relative mass of the nucleus formed is no more than 55. Energy must be supplied in order to create a bigger nuclei

Why are fusion reactors good for us

The fuel for fusion reactors is readily available heavy hydrogen is present in sea water The product helium is a non radioactive inert gas hence it is harmless The energy released could be used to generate electricity

Difficulties in fusion reactor

The plasma of the light nuclei must be heated to very high temperatures. This will allow two nuclei with similar charge to overcome the force of repulsion and fuse together. Nuclei that are going to be fixed are difficult to contain

Fusion process

When two protons fuse they form heavy hydrogen nucleus. Other particles are created and emitted at the same time Two more protons form heavier hydrogen The heavier hydrogen collide and form helium. The energy released at each stage is used as kinetic energy.