The Infinite Monkey Cage Fusion – Ria Lina, Yasmin Andrew and Howard Wilson
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Dec 3, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Howard Wilson, a seasoned fusion expert, and plasma physicist Yasmin Andrew share insights into the complexities of fusion energy. They break down how the sun generates energy and the challenges of recreating this on Earth. Ria Lina brings humor to the table, questioning the science while adding a comedic twist. The conversation covers various fusion methods, the importance of extreme heat, and the potential for clean energy. From experimental breakthroughs to the future of fusion, their collective knowledge shines a light on a promising, yet elusive, energy source.
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How Fusion Releases Energy
- Fusion fuses light nuclei to make heavier ones and releases energy via mass loss converted to energy.
- Overcoming Coulomb repulsion requires extreme conditions, typically huge temperatures around hundreds of millions of degrees.
Fusion vs Fission Essentials
- Fission splits large unstable nuclei and fusion joins light nuclei; both release energy from mass differences via E=mc².
- Fission can be self-sustaining above critical mass, whereas fusion requires continuous fueling and is inherently safer.
Design For A Burning Plasma
- Aim to reach a burning plasma where fusion becomes self-sustaining so external heating is no longer needed.
- Keep fuelling and remove helium ash to maintain the reaction and produce net heat.
