How it works
Positively charged nuclei repel each other. Fusion requires them to approach closely enough for the short-range nuclear force to bind them. In stars, gravity provides confinement and high core temperatures. In magnetic fusion, charged particles spiral along magnetic field lines inside a vacuum vessel. In inertial fusion, lasers or other drivers compress a small target so rapidly that fusion occurs before the fuel flies apart.
Key facts
- Fusion of light nuclei can release energy because the products are more tightly bound.
- Deuterium–tritium is the most accessible fuel mix for first-generation experiments.
- No commercial fusion power plant is operating as of 2026; the field is experimental.
- Magnetic and inertial confinement are the two leading laboratory approaches.
Environment
A fusion plant would not emit carbon dioxide from the fusion reaction. It would still need industrial materials, water or other coolants, and careful management of activated components. Tritium is radioactive and must be contained. These impacts are design-dependent and not yet observed at power-plant scale.