Tuumasüntees

Tuumasüntees, also known as nuclear fusion, is a process where two or more atomic nuclei collide at very high speeds and fuse together to form a single, heavier nucleus. This process releases a tremendous amount of energy. It is the fundamental energy source of stars, including our Sun.

In stars, the immense gravitational pressure and extremely high temperatures create the necessary conditions for fusion to occur. Typically, the fusion process in stars involves hydrogen nuclei (protons) fusing to form helium nuclei. This is known as the proton-proton chain reaction or the CNO cycle, depending on the star's mass. During these reactions, a small amount of mass is converted into energy, as described by Albert Einstein's famous equation E=mc².

Scientists on Earth are actively researching how to replicate and control thermonuclear fusion in a process called fusion power. The goal is to harness this virtually limitless and clean energy source. Fusion reactors aim to heat isotopes of hydrogen, such as deuterium and tritium, to temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius. At these extreme temperatures, the nuclei overcome their electrostatic repulsion and fuse, releasing energy. Challenges in achieving controlled fusion include sustaining the plasma, confining it, and extracting the energy efficiently. While significant progress has been made, achieving a self-sustaining fusion reaction that produces more energy than it consumes remains a major scientific and engineering endeavor.