Description: Fusion energy is the energy released when atomic nuclei combine at extremely high temperatures, a process that occurs naturally in stars, including our Sun. This type of energy is based on the fusion of hydrogen isotopes, such as deuterium and tritium, which, when combined, form helium and release a large amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation. Nuclear fusion is considered a potentially inexhaustible and clean energy source, as it produces radioactive waste in much smaller amounts than nuclear fission and does not emit greenhouse gases. The quest for fusion energy has been a scientific research goal for decades due to its ability to provide a sustainable and safe energy source. As technology advances, fusion reactors are being developed to replicate the conditions of the sun on Earth, which could revolutionize the way we produce and consume energy in the future.
History: Research on fusion energy began in the 1930s when scientists started to understand the nuclear processes occurring in stars. In 1952, the first successful test of a hydrogen bomb, which uses nuclear fusion, was conducted. Since then, numerous experiments have been carried out in laboratories worldwide, such as the ITER project in France, which aims to demonstrate the viability of fusion as an energy source.
Uses: Fusion energy has the potential to be used for large-scale electricity generation, providing a clean and sustainable energy source. Additionally, its application in spacecraft propulsion is being researched, where high energy efficiency could enable faster and farther space travel.
Examples: An example of fusion energy research is the ITER reactor, which is being built in France and aims to demonstrate the viability of nuclear fusion as a commercial energy source. Another example is the SPARC project, which seeks to develop a compact and efficient fusion reactor.
