P7- nuclear fusion Flashcards
1
Q
What is nuclear fusion?
A
Nuclear fusion is when 2 small nuclei merge together to form a heavier nucleus
2
Q
How can we make nuclei fuse together?
A
By getting them very hot and under high pressure.
3
Q
Where does nuclear fusion happen?
A
In stars and in fusion reactors (experimental and not commercially viable yet)
The light nuclei need to be got very hot and under enormous pressure and contained within a magnetic field so it doesn’t touch the walls of the reactor and cool down.
This currently uses more energy than it would produce
4
Q
What are the technical difficulties with fusion reactors?
A
It uses hydrogen which is readily available from water. The waste products aren’t radioactive.
