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Chapter 11: Problem 27

Why is a nuclear fusion reaction so difficult to induce?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Inducing a nuclear fusion reaction is difficult due to several factors, including the need to overcome the Coulomb barrier - the energy barrier resulting from electrostatic repulsion between positively charged atomic nuclei. Additionally, nuclear fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures to allow particles to have enough kinetic energy to overcome the barrier. Containing and controlling plasma at such high temperatures also presents challenges in terms of confinement and stability. Finally, numerous scientific and engineering challenges must be addressed, such as managing neutron radiation and developing suitable materials for a continuous, stable fusion reaction.

Step by step solution

01

Define Nuclear Fusion

Nuclear fusion is a reaction in which two or more atomic nuclei combine, or "fuse," to form a single, more massive nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy, but it is difficult to induce because the atomic nuclei involved have a natural electrostatic repulsion due to their positive charges.
02

Discuss Coulomb Barrier

One of the main challenges in inducing nuclear fusion is overcoming the Coulomb barrier. The Coulomb barrier is the energy barrier that results from the electrostatic repulsion between the positively charged atomic nuclei. To induce nuclear fusion, the particles must come close enough for the strong nuclear force to overcome this repulsion. This usually requires a very high kinetic energy, which translates to extremely high temperatures.
03

Explain Required Temperatures and Pressures

In order to induce nuclear fusion, the reactants must be at temperatures of millions of degrees Celsius and under sufficient pressure. These extreme conditions allow the particles to have enough kinetic energy to overcome the Coulomb barrier and allow the strong nuclear force to bind the nuclei together. In stars, the immense gravity creates the necessary pressure and temperature for nuclear fusion to occur. However, replicating these conditions on Earth is challenging and energy-intensive.
04

Discuss Plasma Containment

At such high temperatures, matter exists in the plasma state, where electrons are separated from their atomic nuclei. Containing and controlling plasma is another difficulty in inducing nuclear fusion. In order for fusion to be a viable energy source, the plasma must be confined for a sufficient amount of time to allow the fusion to occur and generate more energy than is used to maintain the confinement. Currently, two main approaches are used to confine plasma: magnetic confinement and inertial confinement, each with its own set of challenges and limitations.
05

Highlight Scientific and Engineering Challenges

Inducing nuclear fusion requires overcoming numerous scientific and engineering challenges, such as plasma containment, managing neutron radiation, and developing suitable materials and technologies. Additionally, a continuous and stable fusion reaction must be maintained for it to be a viable energy source. Research and development in nuclear fusion is ongoing, with many countries and international collaborations working to harness the potential of this virtually limitless and environmentally friendly energy source.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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Explain the concept of half-life.

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