How Much Energy Is Released from 1kg of Deuterium in Fusion?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the energy released from the fusion of deuterium atoms, specifically focusing on the fusion of two deuterium nuclei to form tritium and hydrogen. The original poster presents a calculation based on given atomic mass units (amu) and expresses confidence in a specific energy output.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore different methods for calculating energy release, including direct calculations and mass-energy equivalence. Questions arise regarding the rationale behind certain factors used in the calculations, such as the division by 2.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the calculations presented, with some participants questioning the steps taken and clarifying terms like "molar mass." While some participants have adjusted their calculations based on insights from others, there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework problem, which may limit the information available for discussion. The original poster expresses certainty about a specific energy value, but this is being critically examined by others.

desmond iking
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Homework Statement


Two 2_1 H atoms undergo fusion to form 3_1 H and 1_1 H atom
calculate the energy released by 1.0kg of deuterium..
the amu is given as :2_1 H : 2.01402u
3_1 H : 3.016049u
1_1 H : 1.007825 u
P/s : i am sure that the energy produced is 3.89MeV ...

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


0.5 x (1000/2) x 6.02x10^23 x 3.89MeV = 5.85x10^26 MeV

Is my working correct?
 
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Why both the 0.5 and the /2?
I get exactly double your answer by calculating the fraction of mass lost, then the total mass lost, then using E=mc2.
 
0.5 means there' re 2 H atom /2 means mrr 2g... I am calculating the energy released for 1 H atom...
 
So I divide 2
 
desmond iking said:
So I divide 2
Yes, but why twice (0.5, then /2)?
 
Mrr is 2g. And there re 2 H atom sow I divide 2 twice
 
desmond iking said:
Mrr is 2g. And there re 2 H atom sow I divide 2 twice
Sorry, you've lost me. What are Mrr and 2g in this context?
 
haruspex said:
Sorry, you've lost me. What are Mrr and 2g in this context?
molar mass of deuterium= 2g
 
Last edited:
desmond iking said:
molar mass of deuterium= 2g
Ah, OK. I didn't recognise it because you truncated it from the given 2.01402.
I've found the mistake in my own working and now get almost the same as you do: 5.80E26.
 

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