How to compute how much energy is released in nuclear fusion?

In summary, nuclear fusion is a process that combines atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus and release a large amount of energy. The amount of energy released depends on factors such as the mass of the nuclei, temperature and pressure, and type of reaction. The energy released is typically measured in joules or electron volts, and is often described as energy yield. While nuclear fusion has the potential to be highly efficient, current reactions have not yet achieved energy breakeven. Scientists calculate the energy released by using Einstein's equation to determine the mass defect and then multiplying it by the speed of light squared.
  • #1
Mestudyingphysics
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Homework Statement
In a fusion power plant, it is planned to use deuterium and tritium, so that one gets helium and neutrons. How much one gets energy if we have $1\textrm{ kg}$ fuel?
Relevant Equations
$\Delta m=m(_1^2\textrm{H})+m(_1^3\textrm{H})-m(_2^4\textrm{He})-m(_0^1\textrm{n})$
I thought the first step is to compute the loss of mass. ##\Delta m=m(_1^2\textrm{H})+m(_1^3\textrm{H})-m(_2^4\textrm{He})-m(_0^1\textrm{n})=2.0141018u+3.0160493u- 4.0026033u-1.0086650u=0.0188828u##. The corresponding reaction energy is ##0.0188828 \cdot 931,5MeV=17.54MeV\approx 2.81\cdot 10^{-12}J##. But the answer is about ##3.4\cdot 10^{14}\textrm{ J}##. What is my mistake?
 
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  • #2
If the energy per reaction is 2.81e-12 J, what is the energy per kg?
 

1. How does nuclear fusion release energy?

Nuclear fusion is a process in which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a larger nucleus. This process releases a large amount of energy in the form of heat and light. The energy is released because the mass of the new nucleus is slightly less than the combined mass of the original nuclei. This missing mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's famous equation, E=mc².

2. What factors affect the amount of energy released in nuclear fusion?

The amount of energy released in nuclear fusion depends on the types of nuclei involved, their masses, and their initial energies. The temperature and density of the fusion reaction also play a crucial role in determining the amount of energy released. The higher the temperature and density, the greater the amount of energy released.

3. How is the energy released in nuclear fusion measured?

The energy released in nuclear fusion is typically measured in joules (J) or electron volts (eV). One electron volt is equivalent to 1.6 x 10⁻¹⁹ joules. Scientists also use the unit of megatons of TNT to describe the energy released in nuclear fusion, where 1 megaton is equivalent to 4.2 x 10¹⁵ joules.

4. Can the amount of energy released in nuclear fusion be controlled?

Yes, the amount of energy released in nuclear fusion can be controlled by controlling the temperature and density of the reaction. However, achieving and maintaining the necessary conditions for fusion to occur is a significant challenge and requires advanced technology and precise control.

5. What are the potential applications of nuclear fusion energy?

Nuclear fusion has the potential to provide a virtually limitless supply of clean energy. It is the same process that powers the sun and other stars. If harnessed effectively, nuclear fusion could provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of energy for electricity generation and other applications.

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