17-Jun-2025
Nuclear Fusion breakthrough in Germany
Why in News?
Scientists in Germany have achieved a major milestone in nuclear fusion by sustaining plasma for 43 seconds using the Wendelstein 7-X reactor, setting a new record. This brings the world closer to achieving clean, safe and limitless energy.
What is Nuclear Fusion?
- Fusion is a nuclear reaction where two light atoms combine to form a heavier atom, releasing massive energy.
- This is the same process that powers the Sun.
- Deuterium and Tritium, two forms of hydrogen, fuse to release energy.
- Example: Hydrogen bomb (artificial fusion).
About Wendelstein 7-X
- World’s largest stellarator, located in Greifswald, Germany
- Uses external magnets to confine plasma for stability
- Designed for long-term, steady-state fusion
Difference between Nuclear Fusion and Nuclear Fission
|
Feature |
Nuclear Fusion |
Nuclear Fission |
|
Definition |
Fusion involves combining lighter atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. |
Fission is the process where a heavy atomic nucleus breaks into smaller nuclei. |
|
Process |
Atoms, like hydrogen isotopes, merge to form new atoms. |
Atoms such as uranium or plutonium split into smaller parts. |
|
Starting Materials |
Uses light elements like deuterium and tritium. |
Uses heavy and unstable elements like Uranium-235 and Plutonium-239. |
|
Products |
Produces stable and mostly non-radioactive products like helium and neutrons. |
Generates radioactive by-products with long-lasting effects. |
|
Conditions |
Requires very high temperature and pressure to start and sustain the reaction. |
Occurs at lower temperatures, usually initiated by neutron collision. |
|
Natural Occurrence |
Naturally happens in stars like the Sun. |
Does not happen naturally in a sustained way on Earth; used in nuclear reactors and bombs. |