Nuclear fusion

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Nuclear fusion is the process by which two or more small nuclei fuse to make a bigger nucleus.[1] The successful fusion of two nuclei releases large amounts of energy, but to start the reactions large amounts of energy must be input to overcome the repulsive electrostatic forces.

In the center of most stars, hydrogen fuses together to form helium. Fusion is so powerful it supports the star's enormous mass from collapsing in on itself, and heats the star so high it glows as the bright object we see today.

Scientists here on earth are trying to make nuclear fusion in the laboratory a useful energy source. Uncontrolled fusion causes thermonuclear explosions, which are used in the hydrogen bomb.

Sources

APOD Glossary

References

  1. Wile, Dr. Jay L. Exploring Creation With Physical Science. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1999, 2000