Fusion (more precisely [nuclear fusion]) is the process of joining together two smaller [atoms] to make a larger one, liberating energy in the process. This usually occurs between two [helium] atoms or one of its [isotopes], such as [deuterium]or [tritium]. This is what occurs in the [sun] and other stars. It is possible to fuse heavier [elements], but it requires more energy, and only occurs in stars where the [hydrogen] is running out. Fusion formed all of the elements from [hydrogen].

Attempts have been made to create a [fusion reaction] on earth, but the high temperature conditions mean a fusion reaction is very difficult to contain. Attempts have been made to use a [magnetic field] to contain the superheated [plasma] produced, but none have succeeded so far. Also research has gone into [muon-catalysed cold fusion], a possible form of [cold fusion] that uses rare subatomic particles called [muon]s to increase the chance of fusion and [laser fusion],which bombards a pellet of fusion fuel with high-power [laser]s.The [laser]s both heat the fuel up and contain the [plasma].

fusion (thing)