4. Lightning-Triggered Fusion Reactions

Using the great energy and pressure generated by lightning strikes, researchers are investigating in this innovative method the possibility of starting controlled fusion processes. The idea is building specialised rooms where, triggered by a lightning strike, the fusion conditions can be momentarily reached.
Extreme heat and electromagnetic pulse produced by lightning might perhaps compress and heat fusion fuel to the point of ignition. Although the fusion reaction would be fleeting, it may release a lot of energy that might later be gathered and turned into electricity.
Still mainly theoretical, this approach presents several technical difficulties. The main challenges are creating materials that can survive the extreme circumstances, exactly timing the fusion fuel injection with the lightning hit, and effectively gathering the energy emitted. Notwithstanding these challenges, the possibility for significant energy yields makes lightning-triggered fusion an interesting field of research in the hunt for plentiful, environmentally friendly energy sources.
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