Quote:
Originally Posted by xelasnave
What I find curious is why it is a few light elements that give off energy and yet with heavier elements energy is required..could they be wrong about light elements giving off energy in fusion? Why the difference?
alex
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Hi Alex,
In order to fuse the nuclei, you have to overcome the repulsive force
of the protons. Lighter elements can be more readily fused because there is less
protons and therefore less electrostatic repulsive force. It transpires
for these lighter elements when you fuse them you get an net energy gain.
That is, the energy it produces once you manage to fuse them is greater
than the amount of energy you had to put into getting them to fuse.
Once you get to iron it takes more energy to fuse them than you get out.
Best example is stars.
Tried and tested here on Earth in the form of thermonuclear bombs.
Bikini isn't just famous for skimpy two-piece beachwear.