Teller-Ulam design

The Teller-Ulam design is a method used to make powerful nuclear weapons more efficient. It works by using two components: a smaller "trigger" explosion and a larger "secondary" stage containing fuel. The trigger triggers a shockwave that compresses and heats the fuel, causing it to undergo a rapid, uncontrolled nuclear reaction. This process harnesses energy from both explosions, significantly increasing the weapon's yield. The design allows the energy from the initial explosion to optimize the secondary's reaction, making the weapon much more powerful than simple flat designs.