Describes nuclear fusion
Start when two atoms slam together to form one heavier Atom
Starts win a neutron slams into an atom, causing the larger atom to split into two smaller atoms
Starts with a neutron slams into an atom, causing two atoms to form one have your atom
Starts with two atoms slammed together, causing the larger atom to split into two smaller atoms
Nuclear fusion is a process in which two atomic nuclei come together to form a larger nucleus. This process is accompanied by the release of a significant amount of energy. Unlike nuclear fission, which involves the splitting of atoms, fusion involves the merging of atomic nuclei.
In fusion, two atomic nuclei, usually isotopes of hydrogen such as deuterium and tritium, collide at extremely high temperatures and pressures, which are typically found in the core of stars or in experimental fusion reactors. When these nuclei come close enough, they can overcome the electrostatic repulsion between their positive charges and the strong nuclear force takes over, binding them together. This results in the formation of a heavier nucleus.
During the fusion process, a small portion of the mass of the participating nuclei is converted into energy according to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc². This energy release is what powers the Sun and other stars, as well as potential fusion reactors on Earth.
Fusion reactions require extremely high temperatures and pressures to overcome the repulsive forces between atomic nuclei. Therefore, achieving controlled fusion reactions on Earth is a significant scientific and engineering challenge. Research and development on fusion energy are aimed at harnessing this clean and sustainable energy source to meet the increasing global energy demands.