Can Tritium and Tritium Fuse in Deuterium-Tritium Plasmas?

In summary, tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that is different from other isotopes in terms of its atomic number and stability. It is used in fusion reactions, which have the potential to provide clean and limitless energy without producing long-lasting radioactive waste or greenhouse gases. However, there are challenges in achieving tritium fusion, including creating and maintaining the necessary conditions and developing technology to harness the energy produced. While tritium fusion is generally considered safer than traditional nuclear reactions, proper safety protocols must still be followed when handling and storing tritium.
  • #1
Flexwheeler
19
0
TL;DR Summary
Can tritium and tritium fuse?
Can tritium and tritium fuse?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Yes it can, via the reaction: ##T+T=α+2n+11.3 MeV##
I'd appreciate if someone had more info on this. I was unable to quickly find a reliable reference, just a Quora post about it.
 
  • #3
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fusion

1594685077573.png
 
  • Like
Likes Lord Jestocost and Drakkith
  • #4
  • Like
Likes berkeman
  • #5
It's a less common side-reaction if you have a plasma of deuterium and tritium. You get two neutrons to make two new tritium nuclei, so it isn't a big loss.
 

Related to Can Tritium and Tritium Fuse in Deuterium-Tritium Plasmas?

What is tritium and how is it different from other elements?

Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen with an atomic mass of 3. It differs from other elements because it has two neutrons in its nucleus, making it heavier than the most common form of hydrogen, which has only one neutron.

What is tritium fusion and how does it work?

Tritium fusion is a type of nuclear reaction in which two tritium atoms combine to form a helium atom, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This reaction is similar to the fusion process that powers the sun, but on a much smaller scale.

What are the potential uses of tritium fusion?

Tritium fusion has the potential to be a clean and virtually limitless source of energy. It could be used to generate electricity, power spacecraft, and even propel future space missions.

What are the challenges of achieving tritium fusion?

One of the main challenges of tritium fusion is creating the extreme conditions necessary for the reaction to occur, such as high temperatures and pressures. Additionally, containing and controlling the reaction is also a major challenge.

Is tritium fusion safe?

While tritium fusion has the potential to be a safe and clean source of energy, there are still risks involved. The radioactive nature of tritium means that proper safety measures must be taken to prevent exposure to harmful radiation. Additionally, there is always a risk of accidents or malfunctions during the fusion process.

Similar threads

  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
816
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
4
Views
1K
Back
Top