China Achieves Breakthrough in Creating an ‘Artificial Sun’   

• Nuclear fusion is a nuclear reaction that occurs when two atomic nuclei, the energy-dense centers of atoms, combine, releasing massive amounts of energy. It is this process that powers the stars in our skies. Scientists consider fusion a promising way to generate energy for a more sustainable future. For one, it produces little nuclear waste and is inherently safe. It also does not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, and its two fuel sources, hydrogen and lithium, are abundant. With China’s recent breakthrough, we are closer to making this futuristic energy source a reality. China has been working on building an “artificial sun” that creates energy through nuclear fusion. Last month, researchers discovered information that would allow them to control the fusion process more accurately, thus paving the way to safely harnessing this energy for human use in the future. Nuclear fusion would be much more sustainable than other forms of energy, like fossil fuels, and allow China to develop substantially. Researchers in China and around the world continue to experiment to develop the potential of this “artificial sun” project, given what impact it would have on our world’s future. Abi Raymaker For The Junior Times junior/1721267032/1613368089