Is this an example of nuclear fusion?

Thread starter Dennis Heerlein
Start date Aug 10, 2015
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Example Fusion Nuclear Nuclear fusion

In summary, nuclear fusion is a process in which two or more atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. It differs from nuclear fission in that it involves combining nuclei rather than splitting them. High temperatures and pressures are necessary for nuclear fusion to occur, and it has the potential to be a limitless source of energy. However, this technology is still in its early stages and has not yet been fully realized. Examples of nuclear fusion include the sun, hydrogen bombs, and experimental fusion reactors, but more information is needed to definitively determine if something is an example of nuclear fusion.

Aug 10, 2015

Dennis Heerlein

My physics SATII book states that this is not an example of nuclear fusion: 4/2 He + 27/13 Al ⇒30/15 P +1/0 n

If this isn't fusion then what is it?

(The top number of the division is the mass; the bottom is the atomic number)

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Aug 10, 2015

the_wolfman

Technically, it is a fusion reaction.

You might also hear it referred to as alpha bombardment of aluminum.

Aug 10, 2015

Dennis Heerlein

Thank you

Related to Is this an example of nuclear fusion?

1. What is nuclear fusion?

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

2. How is nuclear fusion different from nuclear fission?

Nuclear fusion involves combining two atomic nuclei, while nuclear fission involves splitting a single atomic nucleus into smaller nuclei. The energy released in fusion is much greater than that of fission.

3. What are the conditions necessary for nuclear fusion to occur?

Nuclear fusion requires extremely high temperatures and pressures in order for the atomic nuclei to overcome their repulsive forces and fuse together. This is typically achieved by using powerful lasers or magnetic fields to contain and heat the nuclei.

4. How is nuclear fusion used in energy production?

Nuclear fusion has the potential to be a virtually limitless source of energy. Currently, scientists are working on developing fusion reactors that can harness the energy produced by fusion reactions. However, this technology is still in its early stages and has not yet been fully realized.

5. Is this an example of nuclear fusion?

In order to determine if something is an example of nuclear fusion, you would need to look for the presence of high temperatures, pressures, and the release of large amounts of energy. Examples of nuclear fusion include the sun, hydrogen bombs, and experimental fusion reactors. Without more information, it is not possible to definitively say whether or not something is an example of nuclear fusion.