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 a dedicated and accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience in the field, coupled with a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven track record of strategically managing educational departments, driving operational efficiencies, and nurturing collaborative relationships with stakeholders.
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Comprehension activity on International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)
Past paper questions
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