Definition & Meaning of "nuclear fusion"

Nuclear fusion

NOUN

(physics) the reaction in which two nuclei join together and produce energy

Example

Nuclear fusion is the process in which two atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy in the process.

Scientists are researching ways to achieve controlled nuclear fusion on Earth as a potentially limitless and clean source of energy.

The most promising approach to achieving nuclear fusion on Earth involves heating hydrogen isotopes to extremely high temperatures and confining them in a magnetic field in devices called tokamaks.

The challenge of achieving sustainable nuclear fusion on Earth lies in confining the high-temperature plasma required for fusion and sustaining the reaction in a controlled manner.

In processes such as nuclear fusion in stars neutrinos play a key role.