Stellarators
Stellarators are devices designed to confine and control plasma—an ionized gas of charged particles—for the purpose of nuclear fusion, the process that powers the sun. Unlike other fusion devices, stellarators use complex, twisted magnetic fields created by external coils to stabilize the plasma without relying on a large electric current within the plasma itself. This innovative design helps maintain the necessary conditions for fusion reactions, potentially leading to clean, limitless energy. While still in experimental stages, stellarators hold promise for advancing fusion technology and addressing global energy needs.
Additional Insights
-
Stellarators are complex devices designed to confine and control hot plasma, the state of matter where electrons are separated from atoms, crucial for nuclear fusion research. Unlike tokamaks, which use magnetic fields generated by electric currents, stellarators create stable plasma containment using twisted and helical magnetic fields. This design helps maintain the plasma's shape and reduces the risk of disruptions, making stellarators a promising avenue for sustainable energy production through fusion, emulating the processes that power the sun. Researchers explore their potential to harness clean, abundant energy without the radioactive waste associated with traditional nuclear fission.