Is Matter the Key to Unlocking Nuclear Fusion?

In summary, the conversation discusses the differences between nuclear fusion in vacuum and in matter, specifically in a plasma vs in a solid. The conclusion is that the fusion ratio depends on the target material, which goes against the belief that the presence of a lattice has no effect on the fusion process. The conversation also mentions the comparison of energy densities and reaction rates when considering the practicality of fusion in different environments.
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  • #2
The conclusion is that there is a difference between nuclear fusion in vacuum and nuclear fusion in matter.
I think what one means is the difference between fusion in a plasma vs in a solid.

One has to compare energy densities and reaction rates if one is looking at which is more practical.
 
  • #3
Maybe the difference is between fusion in gas target (trying to reproduce stars behavior in lab where high vacuum condition are applied) and in a solid target.

Anyway, in this article the fusion ratio depends on target material.
And I think this is the crucial point.

I have always known that the electrons dynamics is so slow (I mean typical time decay) compared to that of nuclei that the lattice presence has no effect.

But this article says exactly the contrary.
 
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Related to Is Matter the Key to Unlocking Nuclear Fusion?

1. What is nuclear fusion in matter?

Nuclear fusion in matter is a process in which the nuclei of two atoms combine to form a larger nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy, which is the same process that powers the sun and other stars.

2. How is nuclear fusion different from nuclear fission?

Nuclear fusion and nuclear fission are both nuclear reactions, but they are opposite processes. While fusion combines two smaller nuclei into a larger one, fission splits a larger nucleus into smaller ones. Fusion releases more energy than fission and does not produce radioactive waste, making it a cleaner source of energy.

3. Is nuclear fusion a sustainable source of energy?

Yes, nuclear fusion has the potential to be a sustainable source of energy. It uses hydrogen isotopes found in seawater as fuel and produces helium as a byproduct. These resources are abundant and can sustain fusion reactions for millions of years, making it a renewable and virtually limitless source of energy.

4. What are the challenges in achieving nuclear fusion on Earth?

The main challenge in achieving nuclear fusion on Earth is creating the extreme conditions necessary for the fusion reaction to occur. This includes creating temperatures of over 100 million degrees Celsius and containing the hot plasma using strong magnetic fields. Scientists are also working to develop materials that can withstand the extreme conditions and to find ways to efficiently harness the energy produced.

5. Can nuclear fusion be used for weapons?

No, nuclear fusion is not currently used for weapons. While fusion reactions do release a large amount of energy, they are not easily controllable and require more energy to initiate than they produce. This makes it impractical for use in weapons. However, nuclear fusion research has contributed to advancements in nuclear weapons technology.

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