Plasma confinement theory

Plasma confinement theory involves methods to contain a hot, ionized state of matter called plasma—similar to the sun—so its energy can be harnessed for fusion power. Since plasma is extremely hot and tends to escape, scientists use strong magnetic fields to hold it in place within devices like tokamaks or stellarators. These magnetic fields create a kind of invisible cage, preventing the plasma from touching the walls of the container—avoiding energy loss and material damage—allowing conditions necessary for nuclear fusion reactions to occur efficiently. Effective confinement is crucial for developing practical fusion energy.