Can fusion happen spontaneously

Answer 1

Assuming that the particle is alone in free space, which is not a realistic condition, then we are talking about quantum chromodynamics.

The gist is that the subatomic particles have a quantum mechanical probability associated to their energy. If that energy randomly, aka quantum mechanically, increases above a certain threshold level, called the "bound state energy", then the nucleus of the atom may separate into two atoms or nuclei.

Imagine rolling a ball in a valley that has a hill on both sides of it. If the ball does not have enough kinetic energy to rois ll over top of the valley and down the hill, then it will oscillate back and forth, up and down the walls of the valley. This is assuming no friction.

But in the quantum world, there is a chance that the ball with quantum jump through the hill and thus travel down the hill on the other side of the valley. In terms of the nuclei in the process of fission, this analogy means if the ball is in the valley then the nucleus stays together; but if the ball leaps through the hill and down the hill then the nucleus breaks into smaller pieces and fly apart. This explains fission.

For fusion, the analogy is in reverse. If the ball is outside the valley, then the two nuclei stay apart. But if the ball "teleports" back inside the valley, then the two nuclei combine into one.

Answer 2

Consider this: It is more likely for a log of wood to spontaneously light on fire.

Nuclear fusion requires two nuclei to get very close together, at which point they *SNAP* together and release a lot of energy. Nuclei generally repel one another like two magnets with opposite polarity.

In order to make the nuclei get close enough, they must be given a LOT of energy. The LHC at CERN does this by making them collide at very high speed.

There is no law of physics which says this cannot happen simultaneously, but it is very unlikely (at room temperature and pressure) that it could occur without a great deal of energy (comparable to the energy of the Sun).

Answer 3

Fusion typically requires high temperatures and pressures to overcome the repulsive forces between atomic nuclei. Spontaneous fusion at room temperature is not observed in normal conditions. However, in extreme environments such as the core of the Sun or in a controlled nuclear fusion reactor, fusion can occur spontaneously.

Answer 4

mendelevium