Question 1: Define nuclear fusion and describe the conditions necessary for it to occur.

Answer: Nuclear fusion is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. It requires extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees Celsius) and pressures to overcome electrostatic repulsion.

Question 2: Explain why nuclear fusion is considered a potential source of clean energy.

Answer: Because fusion produces large amounts of energy from abundant fuel sources like hydrogen isotopes and releases minimal radioactive waste compared to fission.

Question 1: Calculate the energy released when 1 gram of deuterium nuclei fuses with 1 gram of tritium nuclei. Use the approximate energy release of 17.6 MeV per fusion reaction. (1 MeV = 1.602 × 10⁻¹³ Joules)

Answer: Approximately 3.2 × 10⁻³ Joules

Question 2: If a fusion reactor produces 500 MW of power continuously, how much energy is produced in 24 hours? (1 MW = 10⁶ Watts)

Answer: 1.728 × 10¹⁶ Joules

Question 1: Describe a basic experimental setup that could be used to demonstrate nuclear fusion principles in a controlled environment.

Answer: A basic setup might include a tokamak or inertial confinement device where isotopes like deuterium and tritium are heated to high temperatures using lasers or magnetic fields to induce fusion. Safety precautions include shielding to contain radiation, cooling systems, and remote operation to protect researchers.

Question 2: Identify three safety precautions necessary when conducting fusion experiments and explain their importance.

Answer: 1. Using radiation shielding to protect against neutron and gamma radiation. 2. Implementing cooling systems to prevent overheating of equipment. 3. Maintaining remote operation to minimise exposure to high-energy particles.

Question 1: A fusion experiment recorded a temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius and produced an energy output of 2 × 10¹⁶ Joules over one hour. What does this data suggest about the efficiency and potential of fusion as an energy source?

Answer: The high temperature indicates the extreme conditions required for fusion, and the significant energy output suggests that fusion has the potential to generate large amounts of clean energy efficiently, provided technology can sustain these conditions safely.

Question 1: Discuss how nuclear fusion could impact global energy supplies and environmental sustainability in the future.

Answer: Nuclear fusion has the potential to provide a virtually limitless source of clean energy, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its adoption could decrease greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change, and promote sustainable development by offering a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly power source.