Description: Nuclear fusion is a process in which two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process. This phenomenon is the same that powers stars, including our sun, where the fusion of hydrogen into helium generates the energy that emits light and heat. Nuclear fusion is characterized by its ability to produce large amounts of energy from abundant fuels, such as hydrogen, making it an attractive option for sustainable energy generation. Unlike nuclear fission, which involves the splitting of heavy nuclei and generates radioactive waste, fusion produces minimal waste and does not emit greenhouse gases. This process is currently in the research and development phase, with multiple experiments and ongoing projects aimed at achieving controlled and sustainable fusion that can be used for large-scale energy production. Nuclear fusion represents one of the most promising hopes for meeting the world’s growing energy demand while addressing the challenge of climate change and the need for cleaner and safer energy sources.
History: Research on nuclear fusion began in the 1930s when scientists like Hans Bethe and Edward Teller explored the 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: Nuclear fusion has the potential to be used as a clean and virtually inexhaustible energy source. If controlled, it could provide large-scale electricity without the radioactive waste associated with nuclear fission. Additionally, fusion is being researched for applications in space propulsion, where its high energy efficiency could enable faster and farther space travel.
Examples: An example of nuclear fusion research is the ITER experimental reactor, which is being built in France and aims to demonstrate the viability of fusion as an energy source. Another example is the SPARC project, developed by MIT and Commonwealth Fusion Systems, which seeks to build a more compact and efficient fusion reactor.
