Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear fusion is a process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy and is the same process that powers the sun and other stars. Unlike nuclear fission, which involves the splitting of heavy atomic nuclei, nuclear fusion involves the merging of light atomic nuclei.
How does nuclear fusion work?
In order for nuclear fusion to occur, the nuclei of two atoms must overcome the strong electrostatic repulsion between them. This usually happens at extremely high temperatures and pressures. When the nuclei fuse, they release a tremendous amount of energy in the form of light and heat.
Study Guide:
- What is nuclear fusion?
- How does nuclear fusion differ from nuclear fission?
- What is the role of nuclear fusion in the sun?
- What are the challenges in harnessing nuclear fusion for energy production?
Answers:
- Nuclear fusion is a process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus.
- Nuclear fusion involves the merging of light atomic nuclei, while nuclear fission involves the splitting of heavy atomic nuclei.
- Nuclear fusion is the process that powers the sun and other stars, where hydrogen nuclei combine to form helium.
- The challenges in harnessing nuclear fusion for energy production include the difficulty of achieving and maintaining the extremely high temperatures and pressures required for fusion to occur, as well as containing the plasma.
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