nuclear fusion

[ noo-klee-er fyoo-zhuhn, nyoo- ]

noun

1. fusion ( def 4 ).

nuclear fusion

noun

1. a reaction in which two nuclei combine to form a nucleus with the release of energy Sometimes shortened tofusion Compare nuclear fission See also thermonuclear reaction

fusion, nuclear

1. The combining of two small atomic nuclei to form a larger nucleus, sometimes with the release of energy . ( Compare nuclear fission .)

Pronunciation Note

See nuclear ( def ).

Notes

The use of fusion as a controllable energy source on Earth is still in its experimental stages.

The fusion of hydrogen into helium releases huge amounts of energy and is the main energy source of stars , including the sun .

Hydrogen bombs use the energy of fusion.

Word History and Origins

Origin of nuclear fusion¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

With a powerful laser zap, scientists have blasted toward a milestone for nuclear fusion.

From Science News

In nuclear fusion, hydrogen nuclei meld together to form helium, releasing energy in the process.

From Science News

Helium-3 has many applications, but importantly, it could be a fuel source for nuclear fusion and future planetary exploration.

From Singularity Hub 

Stars with more than about 10 times the sun’s mass go supernova after nuclear fusion reactions within the core cease, and the star can no longer support itself against gravity.

From Science News

Both the UK government and a variety of startups have announced plans to pursue nuclear fusion, often aiming for much smaller and easier-to-build reactors than ITER.

From Singularity Hub 

Between the nuclear association and the nuclear fusion in the basidium many thousands of cell generations may be intercalated.

From Project Gutenberg

This conjugate condition is finally brought to a close by the nuclear fusion in the basidium.

From Project Gutenberg