Final answer:
Nuclear fusion produces nuclear energy by converting mass into energy, which is ultimately aimed to be used to generate electricity. The fusion reaction releases more energy than fission and is considered as a potential sustainable energy source with low environmental impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fusion reaction produces nuclear energy by combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus. During this process, mass is converted into energy according to Einstein's equation E=mc², releasing an enormous amount of energy. For instance, the fusion of deuterium (2H) and tritium (3H) produces helium (4He) and a neutron, along with a significant amount of energy. This energy release is many times greater than what is produced by nuclear fission.
Ultimately, the goal is to use the energy from controlled nuclear fusion to generate electricity. However, creating the extreme temperatures and pressures required for sustained fusion reactions is enormously challenging. Fusion reactors, such as the Joint European Torus (JET), aim to overcome these difficulties. If successful, fusion power would provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source, with hydrogen isotope fuels that are relatively abundant, and with minimal radioactive waste.
Fusion energy has the potential to revolutionize energy production, offering a promising future power source with low environmental impact and vast energy output. However, there is still significant work to be done in the fields of physics and engineering to achieve controlled fusion and convert the released energy into usable electricity.