termotuumareaktsioon

Termotuumareaktsioon, also known as thermonuclear reaction, is a type of nuclear reaction where nuclei combine or split, releasing a large amount of energy. This process is the basis for the energy production in stars, including our Sun. The term "thermo" refers to heat, and "nuclear" refers to the nucleus of an atom.

In a thermonuclear reaction, nuclei with lower atomic numbers fuse together to form heavier nuclei. This process requires extremely high temperatures and pressures, typically found in the core of stars. The most common thermonuclear reaction is the proton-proton chain reaction, which involves the fusion of hydrogen nuclei to form helium. This reaction is responsible for the Sun's energy output.

Thermonuclear reactions can also occur through nuclear fission, where a heavy nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing energy. This process is used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.

The energy released in a thermonuclear reaction is significantly greater than that released in a chemical reaction. This makes thermonuclear reactions a powerful source of energy, with the potential to revolutionize the way we power our world. However, harnessing this energy safely and efficiently remains a significant challenge.