When fusion energy is successful, what happen to other sources of energy?

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential impact of fusion energy becoming successful in the near future. The question is raised whether other alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind, will still be necessary. It is noted that fusion energy may make these alternatives redundant, but there are still concerns about its feasibility and cleanliness. The conversation concludes that both fusion and alternative energy sources should be pursued.
  • #1
kevin_tee
80
2
Hi, I have a question that might involve politics so I post it here.

In the near future when fusion energy become successful, cheap, low-cost, small size, high above break-even point, etc. are there any role left for other alternative energy such as solar, wind, etc? Do we need those alternative anymore? It seems that fusion energy will make other alternatives become redundant.

Thank you.
 
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  • #2
Would be nice. But it's always the near future. Was like that when I went to university in 1971 and now it still is. The etc. you mention is also pretty tough: will it be clean enough when it comes, IF it comes ...
 
  • #3
Thank for reply, you basically mean that when it comes, it will blow other alternative energy out the water right? But it is very tough.
 
  • #5
Thanks for the link, I read it and I conclude that we should do both because fusion is still faraway.
 

Related to When fusion energy is successful, what happen to other sources of energy?

1. What is fusion energy and how does it differ from other sources of energy?

Fusion energy is a type of nuclear energy that is produced by fusing two or more atomic nuclei together to form a heavier nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy, similar to that of the sun. Unlike other sources of energy, such as fossil fuels, fusion energy does not produce greenhouse gases or radioactive waste.

2. Will fusion energy completely replace other sources of energy?

It is unlikely that fusion energy will completely replace other sources of energy. While fusion energy has the potential to be a more sustainable and efficient source of energy, it is still in the research and development stage and has not yet been successfully implemented on a large scale. Other sources of energy, such as renewable energy, will continue to play an important role in our energy mix.

3. What impact will fusion energy have on the environment?

Fusion energy has the potential to greatly reduce our impact on the environment. As mentioned, fusion energy does not produce greenhouse gases or radioactive waste, making it a cleaner and more sustainable source of energy. However, the construction and operation of fusion power plants may still have some environmental impacts, such as land use and water consumption.

4. How does the cost of fusion energy compare to other sources of energy?

Currently, the cost of producing fusion energy is much higher than other sources of energy. This is due to the complex technology and materials required for fusion reactions. However, as research and development continues and the technology improves, it is possible that the cost of fusion energy could become more competitive with other sources of energy.

5. What are the potential risks associated with fusion energy?

One of the main risks associated with fusion energy is the potential for accidents or malfunctions at fusion power plants. While fusion reactions do not produce nuclear waste, they do produce high levels of radiation which could be dangerous if not properly contained. There is also the concern of nuclear proliferation, as some fusion reactions can produce materials that could potentially be used to create nuclear weapons.

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