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Nuclear Fusion

Nuclear fusion: ²H + ³H → ⁴He + n + 17.6 MeV
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationNuclear fusion: ²H + ³H → ⁴He + n + 17.6 MeV
Also Known AsThermonuclear fusion, D-T fusion, stellar fusion, nuclear fusion reaction

What is Nuclear Fusion?

The combining of two light nuclei into a heavier nucleus with release of tremendous energy. Fusion is the process that powers the sun. On Earth, fusion requires extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees) to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between nuclei. It is a goal of clean energy research.

Formula & Notation

Nuclear fusion: ²H + ³H → ⁴He + n + 17.6 MeV

Other Names / Synonyms: Thermonuclear fusion, D-T fusion, stellar fusion, nuclear fusion reaction

Properties & Characteristics

Nuclear fusion is the joining of two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing large amounts of energy because the product has greater binding energy per nucleon than the reactants. The most promising fusion reaction is D-T fusion: ²H + ³H → ⁴He + n + 17.6 MeV. Fusion requires overcoming the Coulomb repulsion between nuclei (achieved at temperatures of 10-100 million Kelvin in stellar cores and thermonuclear weapons, or by laser/magnetic confinement in fusion reactors).

Uses & Applications

Fusion is the energy source of all stars, including our sun. Thermonuclear (hydrogen) bombs use fusion boosted by fission primaries. Research tokamaks (JET, ITER), inertial confinement (NIF laser), and stellarators are developing fusion for commercial power generation, potentially offering nearly limitless, low-carbon energy from deuterium (from seawater).

Safety Information

Thermonuclear weapons are the most destructive devices ever made — their development, proliferation, and use is regulated by international treaties. Research fusion reactors operate with intense magnetic fields, high voltages, high-power lasers, and radioactive tritium fuel — each presenting specialised safety challenges.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Nuclear Fusion
Formula Nuclear fusion: ²H + ³H → ⁴He + n + 17.6 MeV
Index All "N" terms
Synonyms Thermonuclear fusion, D-T fusion, stellar fusion, nuclear fusion reaction

Frequently Asked Questions

The combining of two light nuclei into a heavier nucleus with release of tremendous energy. Fusion is the process that powers the sun. On Earth, fusion requires extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees) to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between nuclei. It is a goal of clean energy research.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.

AllChemicals.info — The Online Chemical Glossary | https://allchemicals.info/chemical/609-nuclear-fusion

For educational purposes only. Verify all information before use.