H + H --> He + Q
where the H is H2, Deuterium, Hydrogen with a proton and a neutron
The helium-4 atoms are less massive than the two hydrogen atoms that started the process, so the difference in mass is converted to energy as described by Einstein's theory of relativity (E=mc²). The energy is emitted in various forms of light: ultraviolet light, X-rays, visible light, infrared, microwaves and radio waves.
So you need the mass of a Helium atom and the mass of 2 Deuterium atoms. the difference is m in E = m c^2
What is the energy released in the fusion reaction:
2H+2H--> 4He + Q?
How do I calculate this?
2 answers
You need accurate values for the masses of 2H (a deuteron) and 4He (an alpha particle). Compute the mass loss in the reaction and multiply it by c^2. (Einstein's formula)
You could also use mass values of neutral deuterium and helium atoms, since the number of electrons is the same on both sides.
You can find the nuclear masses you need here:
http://fusedweb.pppl.gov/CPEP/Chart_Pages/3.HowFusionWorks.html
According to
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fusion
that reaction does not occur in a single step.
You could also use mass values of neutral deuterium and helium atoms, since the number of electrons is the same on both sides.
You can find the nuclear masses you need here:
http://fusedweb.pppl.gov/CPEP/Chart_Pages/3.HowFusionWorks.html
According to
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuclear_fusion
that reaction does not occur in a single step.
1 answer