Magnetic Confinement Fusion
Magnetic confinement fusion is a method of generating energy by fusing atomic nuclei, similar to how the sun produces energy. It involves heating a gas, called plasma, to extremely high temperatures, allowing the nuclei to overcome their natural repulsion and collide. Strong magnetic fields are used to contain and stabilize the plasma, preventing it from touching the walls of the reactor. This process holds the potential for clean and abundant energy, as it mimics the reactions in stars, using fuels like isotopes of hydrogen that are widely available.
Additional Insights
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Magnetic confinement fusion is a method of generating energy by mimicking the sun’s process of producing energy through nuclear fusion. In this technique, powerful magnetic fields are used to contain and control hot plasma—a state of matter where atoms are stripped of their electrons. The goal is to fuse hydrogen isotopes under extreme temperatures and pressures, releasing a significant amount of energy. This energy could provide a nearly limitless source of power, leading to cleaner energy without the long-lived radioactive waste associated with traditional nuclear fission reactors.