Nuclear Fusion Reactors

Tessa R. Smith
Dr. Vayujeet Gokhale, Faculty Mentor

This project will discuss how nuclear fusion works, how it can be utilized in reactors as a power source, and why nuclear fusion reactors are preferable to nuclear fission reactors. Nuclear fusion releases large quantities of energy by converting a small amount of mass into a large amount of energy.  This happens when two light atomic nuclei are joined together, hence the name nuclear fusion.  This phenomenon has been known for years as it is the mechanism by which stars generate energy.  Recently, scientists have been able to show that fusion reactors may soon be utilized as a reliable power source.  Previously, nuclear reactors have been nuclear fission reactors which create energy by splitting a heavy nucleus.  However, fission reactors produce more radioactive waste and less energy than fusion reactors, making fusion reactors a more practicable option for future energy production.

Keywords: Nuclear Fusion, Nuclear Reactors, Reactors, Alternative Energy

Topic(s):Physics

Presentation Type: Oral Paper

Session: 206-1
Location: MG 2050
Time: 9:30

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