English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Explain the process of nuclear fusion.
Explain how nuclei can be made to fuse.
Describe why it is very difficult to make a nuclear fusion reactor.
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Words and meanings to learn
plasma
is an ionised gas and is the state of matter in which nuclear fusion occurs.
Nuclear fusion
is a process where two light atomic nuclei, such as hydrogen, combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. This is the process that powers stars, including the Sun.
heavy hydrogen
isotopes of hydrogen that have additional neutrons in their nuclei.
Deuterium
is an isotope of hydrogen with one proton and one neutron in its nucleus, making it "heavier" than regular hydrogen, which has no neutrons
tritium
is an isotope of hydrogen with one proton and two neutrons in its nucleus. It is radioactive
Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.
Underpinning this is a strong foundation in applied science built across a range of industry roles. Samantha has held scientific roles at John Smith's Brewery, Yorkshire Water and WasteCare, where she led technical projects, drove operational efficiencies and ensured compliance with industry standards. Across these roles she has first-hand experience of how scientific knowledge translates into measurable outcomes in professional and commercial environments.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket.
Comprehension activity on International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)
Past paper questions
Expert film
Mission assignment film
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