by C. F. Powell, F.R.S.
In this series of four programmes C. F. Powell , Professor of Physics at Bristol University, talks to a group of laymen about the structure of the atom, the fusion process, the fission process, and the production and use of nuclear energy.
2-The Fusion Process
The most remarkable event in the recent history of mankind is the imitation of the processes whereby the sun releases the energy that has given the world life. This imitation occurs in the fusion process in ZETA. Professor Powell explains how the nuclei of deuterium are made to fuse at temperatures of five million degrees centigrade without vapourising the equipment, why this releases energy, and how deuterium can be readily obtained from the oceans.