The discussion centers on the Proton–lithium-7 fusion reaction, specifically the equation p + 7Li → 4He + 4He + 17.2 MeV. It concludes that the reaction is not feasible due to its very low cross-section compared to the more viable fast neutron fusion with lithium-7, which produces a neutron and has a lower energy yield of -2.5 MeV. Additionally, gamma rays produced in light element fusion reactions are minimal, with most energy being distributed as kinetic energy among the fusion products. The paper referenced indicates that the 7Li-p fusion has a high neutron yield of 2.94*10^-2, making it less attractive than alternative reactions.
PREREQUISITESPhysicists, nuclear engineers, and researchers in the field of fusion energy who are exploring the viability and efficiency of various fusion reactions, particularly those involving lithium isotopes.
If the reaction produces only one nucleus, nearly the whole energy goes to the photon. The nucleus just takes the recoil, but it does not get much energy as it is heavy.mheslep said:As far as gammas go, in the light element fusion reactions in which they occur (e.g. p+D->3He+gamma), their energy is a small minority of the total energy which is dominated by the kinetic energy of the products.
Why no gamma photon then with D+T to alpha + n, with all the energy (17mev) in the KE of the products?mfb said:If the reaction produces only one nucleus, nearly the whole energy goes to the photon. The nucleus just takes the recoil, but it does not get much energy as it is heavy.