Minimum Velocity of Nuclei in Nuclear Fusion

In summary, this conversation discusses the concept of nuclear fusion, specifically the minimum initial velocity needed for two deuterium nuclei to overcome the Coulomb force of repulsion and fuse together. The necessary distance for fusion is 1 × 10−14 m. The question asks for the minimum initial velocity in the center-of-mass frame, given the permittivity of free space, mass of proton and neutron, and the charge of an electron. The solution can be approached using classical collision principles and considering what is conserved throughout the process. The answer should be given in units of m/s.
  • #1
akmphy
16
0
? Nuclear Fusion

Homework Statement



Two deuterium nuclei overcome the Coulomb
force of repulsion and attain the necessary
1 × 10−14 m distance for fusion.
What is the minimum initial velocity of
each nuclei, as measured in the center-of-
mass frame? The permittivity of free space
is 8.85419 × 10−12 C2/N · m2, the mass of a
proton is 1.67262 × 10−27 kg, the mass of a
neutron 1.67493 × 10−27 kg and the charge
on an electron −1.60218 × 10−19 C.
Answer in units of m/s.

Homework Equations


I do not know how to do this:
2mv.5(v)=ka/rm
r=separation b/w nuclei

The Attempt at a Solution


I am more than willing to work this out with someone. Usually I have an attempt; however, I believe I have no where to begin. Any help is appreciated.
 
Last edited:
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  • #2


Think of it in terms of a classical collision problem. E.q. a car crashes into a spring (or something like that). What determines how close the particles get?
What is conserved throughout the process?
 

Related to Minimum Velocity of Nuclei in Nuclear Fusion

1. What is the minimum velocity of nuclei required for nuclear fusion to occur?

The minimum velocity of nuclei required for nuclear fusion to occur is known as the ignition velocity. This velocity varies depending on the type of nuclei involved in the fusion reaction, but it is typically on the order of millions of meters per second.

2. How does the minimum velocity of nuclei affect the success of a fusion reaction?

The higher the minimum velocity of nuclei, the more energy is required to initiate and sustain the fusion reaction. If the velocity is too low, the nuclei will simply bounce off each other without fusing. On the other hand, if the velocity is too high, the nuclei may break apart before they can fuse, resulting in a failed reaction.

3. How is the minimum velocity of nuclei achieved in nuclear fusion experiments?

In most nuclear fusion experiments, the minimum velocity of nuclei is achieved by heating the reactants to extremely high temperatures. These temperatures cause the nuclei to move faster and collide with each other with enough force to overcome their mutual repulsion and fuse together.

4. Can the minimum velocity of nuclei be controlled in a fusion reaction?

Yes, the minimum velocity of nuclei can be controlled to some extent in a fusion reaction. By adjusting the temperature and pressure of the reactants, scientists can manipulate the velocity of the nuclei and increase the chances of a successful fusion reaction.

5. Is the minimum velocity of nuclei the only factor that determines the success of a fusion reaction?

No, the minimum velocity of nuclei is just one of many factors that contribute to the success of a fusion reaction. Other important factors include the temperature, pressure, and density of the reactants, as well as the type of nuclei involved and the overall energy balance of the reaction.

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