Energy requirements for fusion

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the kinetic energy requirements for fusion processes involving protons and neutrons, specifically comparing proton-neutron fusion and proton-proton fusion. Participants explore the conditions necessary for these fusion reactions and the implications for energy production in stars and potential applications in fusion power.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the kinetic energy required for proton-neutron fusion and compares it to proton-proton fusion, suggesting that the latter may be impossible due to high energy requirements.
  • Another participant proposes that proton-neutron fusion would require little to no energy since the neutron is electrically neutral and would not be repelled by the proton.
  • A different participant asserts that proton-proton fusion is possible but notes that its high energy requirements make it impractical for fusion power, although it occurs in stars.
  • One participant claims that the kinetic energy required for fusion is dependent on external conditions, and questions the definition of fusion when considering a proton and neutron together.
  • Another participant mentions that proton-proton fusion occurs in exotic particles but would only be stable under slightly stronger strong force conditions.
  • There is a contention regarding the necessity of understanding quantum physics to grasp fusion concepts, with some arguing it is not essential while others emphasize a foundational knowledge progression.
  • Participants express differing views on the appropriateness of the questions being asked, with some advocating for patience and teaching, while others criticize the approach of the inquirer.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the energy requirements for fusion and the educational background necessary to understand these processes. The discussion remains unresolved, with no consensus on the specific energy values or the necessity of prior knowledge in quantum physics.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the energy requirements are contingent on unspecified external conditions, and definitions of fusion may vary among participants. There are also unresolved assumptions regarding the educational prerequisites for understanding the topic.

Deepak247
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How much kinetic energy is required for a proton and neutron to fuse(in any given condition)?

I've also heard that a proton-proton fusion is impossible because it needs a lot of kinetic energy, but how much(also comparable to p-n fusion)?
 
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I don't know too much on proton-neutron fusion, but I assume that it would require very little energy, if any, as the neutron is electrically nuetral and wouldn't be pushed away from the proton.

Proton-Proton fusion is most definitely possible, but the high energy requirements mean it isn't an option for Fusion power. It does take place in stars however.
 
Zero.

Deepak, you're going to have to take some responsibility for your education. You refuse to learn the basics, and then expect us to do all the work. This is deeply disrespectful of the other people in this forum. Like I said before, the progression is elementary physics, quantum mechanics, nuclear physics and then and only then, will nuclear physics as applied to fusion make any sense. If you are too lazy to put in the work to understand the beginning of this progression, you won't understand the answers you get. You're wasting your time and ours.
 
Mr vanadium sir,

You're probably right, I am lazy, but yet determined to gain knowledge,

I may be asking questions way too far from my grasp of current studies on physics (which is still ongoing), but this is my interest and no matter how much i try i just can't let go of it,

Its my habit to try to learn in advance, If this is what's causing problems to you then

"I APOLOGIZE"

I will never ask any other question on this forum ever again...ever,

Bye.
 
Deepak247 said:
Mr vanadium sir,

You're probably right, I am lazy, but yet determined to gain knowledge,

I may be asking questions way too far from my grasp of current studies on physics (which is still ongoing), but this is my interest and no matter how much i try i just can't let go of it,

Its my habit to try to learn in advance, If this is what's causing problems to you then

"I APOLOGIZE"

I will never ask any other question on this forum ever again...ever,

Bye.

No need to leave forever man. Spending a little time on Wikipedia or other sites can greatly expand your basic knowledge. Then, if you don't understand something, feel free to ask.
 
Thanks Dr. Akkith, I'll heed on your advice
 
The kinetic energy required is completely dependent on the external conditions set. I would also like to point out that a proton with a neutron is very loosely defined as fusion considering that existing in isolation the two would eventually pull together into one nuclei. Also proton-proton fusion is seen in exotic particles however would only remain stable in normal conditions if the strong force were slightly, two percent, stronger.

Also in reply to Vanadium, I answer many of his questions because I am experienced in the field, but I see you on here many times but I rarely see you actually answering questions. People come here to learn, and you should respect all levels of intelligence, whether they are professional like myself or a beginner like Deepak. If one comes to learn then teach them. It is only ever a waste of your time if you choose to take the time. In fact I would say your posts are a waste of time because they serve neither to teach nor to point toward a teacher with enough knowledge to assist. If basic background is needed then explain or let someone else explain it. As a final point I would like to say quantum physics is unnecessary in your supposed line up of needed education to understand this. It is merely an advanced topic, but not needed for understanding.

I hope I could be of assistance.
 
Mattenerinfo said:
The kinetic energy required is completely dependent on the external conditions set. I would also like to point out that a proton with a neutron is very loosely defined as fusion considering that existing in isolation the two would eventually pull together into one nuclei. Also proton-proton fusion is seen in exotic particles however would only remain stable in normal conditions if the strong force were slightly, two percent, stronger.

Isn't proton-proton fusion seen normally in stars? I've read that two protons fuse by having one turn into a neutron and releasing a positron and a neutrino.
 

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