Nuclear FUSION

• Nuclear fusion happens all the time in stars at very high pressure and temperatures

  These conditions overcome repulsive electrostatic forces between the nuclei
• High pressure and temperatures are needed to overcome repulsive electrostatic force between the nuclei
• The nuclear force holds the particles together
• The charge of a nucleus is always positive. In order to fuse 2 nuclei:

  Have to overcome the electrostatic force

  Get close enough for the strong force to hold them together
• Nuclear fusion converts mass into energy.

  The amount of energy released can be calculated using the equation E=mc2
• The nuclear force holds the particles together
• The charge of a nucleus is always positive.

  In order to fuse, two nuclei have to overcome the electrostatic force between them and get close enough for the strong force to hold them together

  Nuclear fusion coverts mass into energy

  The amount of energy released can be calculated using the equation

  E = m$c^2$

  Where c is the speed of light in a vacuum
• What is nuclear fusion?

  The joining of two light nuclei
• What is produced when two light nuclei fuse?

  A heavier nucleus and energy
• Which process releases more energy, fission or fusion?

  Nuclear fusion
• Name two isotopes of hydrogen used in nuclear fusion.

  Deuterium and Tritium
• Why is nuclear fusion not currently viable for energy production on Earth?

  Energy required exceeds energy produced
• What is a major challenge in generating energy through nuclear fusion?

  Requires very high temperatures
• What is needed to withstand the high temperatures for fusion?

  Casing that can withstand high temperatures
• What are the key aspects of nuclear fusion?

  • Joining of two light nuclei
  • Produces a heavier nucleus
  • Releases energy
  • Requires high temperatures
  • Current energy output is less than input