
Helium-3 isotope
Helium-3 is a rare isotope of helium, consisting of two protons and one neutron. Unlike the more common helium-4, which has two neutrons, helium-3 is lighter and has unique properties. It plays a significant role in nuclear fusion research, as it could potentially fuel fusion reactions that produce clean energy. Helium-3 is also used in cryogenics and in some types of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. It is primarily found in trace amounts on Earth, but is believed to be more abundant on the Moon, making it a target for future lunar exploration and mining endeavors.