How do fusion reactors generate electricity?

Nuclear Fusion reactions power the Sun and other stars. In a fusion reaction, two light nuclei merge to form a single heavier nucleus. The process releases energy because the total mass of the resulting single nucleus is less than the mass of the two original nuclei. The leftover mass becomes energy.

What do fusion reactors run on?

The current best bet for fusion reactors is deuterium-tritium fuel. This fuel reaches fusion conditions at lower temperatures compared to other elements and releases more energy than other fusion reactions. Deuterium and tritium are isotopes of hydrogen, the most abundant element in the universe.

Are fusion reactors legal?

While they might un-nerve the neighbours, fusion reactors of this kind are perfectly legal in the US. During fusion, energy is released as atomic nuclei are forced together at high temperatures and pressures to form larger nuclei.

What is the equation for fusion reaction?

Fusion releases energy. The energy released is related to Einstein’s famous equation, E=mc 2. For a fusion reaction to occur it is necessary to bring the nuclei so close together that nuclear forces become important and “glue” the nuclei together.

When will fusion energy be available?

Fusion powers the sun and stars, as the mighty gravity at their hearts fuse hydrogen to create helium. A viable nuclear fusion reactor – one that spits out more energy than it consumes – could be here as soon as 2025.

How many nuclear plants are in the US?

There are over 100 operating nuclear power plants in America and 16 non-operational power plants, and a large number of nuclear fuel and weapons facilities.

Why are nuclear plants built?

For every three units of energy produced by the reactor core of a U.S. nuclear power plants, two units are discharged to the environment as waste heat. Nuclear plants are built on the shores of lakes, rivers, and oceans because these bodies provide the large quantities of cooling water needed to handle the waste heat discharge.

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