Fusion half-life of diprotium molecule

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a diprotium molecule undergoing tunnelling to fuse through two different reactions. There is a question about the half-life of this fusion process and an estimate from 1989 is mentioned. The speaker also mentions that the current best estimates for the half-life are much longer than the most conservative estimates for proton decay. They also provide an example of a similar rare process in the Standard Model.
  • #1
snorkack
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A diprotium molecule might undergo tunnelling to fuse by two reactions:
  1. p+p→d+e+e
  2. p+p+e→d+νe
What is the half-life for the fusion of an isolated diprotium molecule in its ground state (vibrational and rotational)?
Naturally big, but also naturally finite. And might be computed.
An estimate from Nature, in 1989:
www.fulviofrisone.com%2Fattachments%2Farticle%2F358%2FCalculated%2520fusion%2520rates%2520in%2520isotopic%2520and.pdf

The estimate seems to be in the region of 1056 years.
He says that his estimate was 10 orders of magnitude shorter than preceding ones.
While it is a theoretical field, he quotes several preceding works from 1980s.
28 years have passed since. What might be current best estimates for the half-life of diprotium molecule?
 
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  • #2
Much longer than the most conservative estimates for proton decay for every possible discussed mechanism of baryon number violating processes. If a process is so rare that it doesn't happen, theorists rarely spend time on a more precise estimate. The SM ##\tau \to \mu \mu \mu## and ##\mu \to e e e## processes are another example. You can find many estimates for their branching fraction in various BSM models, but the best SM prediction is something like "10-50, give or take several orders of magnitude".
 

Related to Fusion half-life of diprotium molecule

1. What is the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule?

The fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule is the amount of time it takes for half of the molecules in a sample of diprotium to undergo fusion and form a helium-3 atom. It is a measure of the stability of the diprotium molecule and can vary depending on environmental factors.

2. How is the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule determined?

The fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule is determined through experiments and calculations based on the principles of nuclear physics. Scientists use specialized equipment and techniques to measure the rate at which diprotium molecules undergo fusion under certain conditions.

3. What factors can affect the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule?

The fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule can be affected by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other particles. Higher temperatures and pressures can increase the rate of fusion, while the presence of other particles can hinder or facilitate the fusion process.

4. Why is the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule important?

The fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule is important because it is a key factor in understanding and controlling nuclear fusion reactions. It can also provide insights into the stability and behavior of other molecules and atoms. Additionally, it has potential applications in fields such as energy production and space travel.

5. Can the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule be changed?

Yes, the fusion half-life of a diprotium molecule can be changed by altering the environmental conditions in which it exists. By adjusting factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other particles, scientists can manipulate the rate of fusion and thus affect the fusion half-life of the diprotium molecule. However, this requires specialized equipment and precise control methods.

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