Energy news, features and articles
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Physicists solve nuclear fusion mystery with mayonnaise
By Tia Ghose published
The same physics that underlie mayonnaise could help physicists corral the ultrahot plasma needed to produce nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fusion reactor in UK sets new world record for energy output
By Joanna Thompson published
The JET nuclear fusion reactor in the UK has set a new world record for total energy output. However, the reactor's record-smashing test will be its last.
Massive hydrogen reservoir discovered beneath an Albanian mine could be an untapped source of clean energy
By Sascha Pare published
A portion of ancient oceanic crust that sits atop Albania and hosts one of the largest chromium mines on Earth also contains a huge hydrogen reservoir, offering a potential source of clean energy.
What is fission?
By Nola Taylor Redd, Tia Ghose last updated
Fission is the process by which an atom splits into two, generating two smaller atoms and a tremendous amount of energy. Fission powers nuclear bombs and power plants.
Wind and solar power overtakes coal for the first time ever in the US
By Ben Turner published
Wind and solar power produced a combined 252 terawatt-hours in the first five months of 2023, compared with coal's output of 249 TWh
Chernobyl: The world's worst nuclear disaster
By Marc Lallanilla published
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant explosion resulted in the most horrific nuclear disaster in the world.
How do you decontaminate objects exposed to radioactivity?
By Joanna Thompson published
Can a person or object exposed to high radioactivity just take a shower with soap and water, or is more needed for decontamination?
Scientists discover enzyme that can turn air into energy, unlocking potential new energy source
By Ben Turner published
A relative of the tuberculosis bacterium has long been known to convert hydrogen from the air into electricity. Now, scientists have discovered how.
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