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pivoxa15
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why does the energy-liberating fusion process ends with the formation of iron and not heavier elements such as uranium?
Look at the nuclear binding energy. There's a maximum around iron.
The answer seems to lie in the difference between the Electromagnetic force and the Strong Force. The EM force has an infinite range and works to push all of the protrons in the nucleus apart. The Strong Force is ~20 times stronger and tries to pull all of the protons and neutrons together, but it's range is extremely short, ~10-15 meters.Entropy said:I think he understands that, he wants to know why. I personally don't know enough about nuclear physics to answer your question. I'm not even sure if nuclear physicists know.
The main challenge with achieving fusion with a net release of energy is the high temperatures and pressures required to initiate and sustain the fusion reactions. These conditions are difficult to create and maintain.
The two primary obstacles to achieving fusion with a net release of energy are the need for high temperatures and pressures, and the issue of plasma instabilities that can disrupt the fusion process.
Fusion reactions produce energy by fusing together light nuclei, such as hydrogen isotopes, which are abundant and can be obtained from seawater. This process does not produce greenhouse gases or long-lived radioactive waste, making it a potential source of clean and sustainable energy.
There are several fusion research projects currently underway, such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France, which aims to demonstrate the feasibility of fusion power, and the Wendelstein 7-X stellarator in Germany, which is exploring a different approach to confining plasma. These projects are expected to provide valuable insights and advancements in fusion research.
In addition to the technical challenges of achieving and sustaining fusion reactions, there are also economic and societal challenges that need to be addressed for fusion with a net release of energy to become a viable energy source. These include the high cost of building and operating fusion reactors, as well as public acceptance and support for this technology.