Is there such thing as plasma fusion if so how does it work

In summary, Plasma fusion is a process in which a hydrogen plasma is heated to a high temperature, causing the nuclei to collide and fuse. This process can only be commercially viable if the energy output exceeds the energy input. The sun is an example of fusion occurring in plasma, which is held under high pressures and densities by gravity. All fusion done so far is considered plasma fusion, as the fuel must be heated to a high enough temperature to turn it into a plasma.
  • #1
Ben.meyer
12
0
Is there such thing as plasma fusion if so how does it work?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Ben.meyer said:
Is there such thing as plasma fusion if so how does it work?
Magnetic confinement of a hydrogen plasma (deuterium and tritium) is one possibility for fusion. Basic the plasma is heated to a temperature at which the nuclei collide and fuse. It only makes commerical sense if the useful energy output from the fusion reaction exceeds the energy input to heat and confine the plasma.

The sun is an example of fusion occurring in the plasma. The is not constrained as are terrestrial plasmas. The suns gravity holds the plasma under high pressures and densities, much greater than those achievable in terrestrial plasmas.
 
  • #3
Ben.meyer said:
Is there such thing as plasma fusion if so how does it work?

All fusion done so far is "plasma fusion" as far as I know. The temperatures you must heat the fuel to ionizes it completely and turns it into a plasma.
 

1. What is plasma fusion?

Plasma fusion is a process in which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process. This is the same process that powers the sun and other stars.

2. Is plasma fusion a real phenomenon?

Yes, plasma fusion is a well-documented and studied phenomenon in physics. It has been observed in experiments and in natural processes, such as in the core of the sun.

3. How does plasma fusion work?

In order for plasma fusion to occur, the nuclei of atoms must overcome their natural repulsive force and fuse together. This requires extremely high temperatures and pressures, which can be achieved using powerful lasers or magnetic fields to contain and heat the plasma.

4. What are the potential applications of plasma fusion?

Plasma fusion has the potential to provide a nearly limitless source of clean energy. It could also be used to produce medical isotopes, power spacecraft, and propel future spacecraft through space.

5. Are there any challenges or limitations to achieving plasma fusion?

One of the main challenges in achieving plasma fusion is being able to contain and control the extremely high temperatures and pressures required. Additionally, the current technologies used to achieve fusion are still in the experimental stage and have not yet reached a level of sustained, controlled fusion reactions that could be used for practical applications.

Similar threads

Replies
18
Views
991
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
19
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
910
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
3
Views
930
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
0
Views
310
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
Back
Top