A question we’re often asked: what's the difference between nuclear fission & fusion energy?

Both are gaining attention as clean, firm power sources, but they're actually opposite processes.

Let's dive into the key distinctions... ⚛️ Nuclear fission is the process that powers existing power plants around the world. It’s commonly known as nuclear power. During fission, heavy atoms (such as uranium) split into multiple smaller ones, releasing energy.

At the fusion hearing, @Sen_JoeManchin starts by saying that his trip to @iterorg in March helped restore his faith in mankind. Says he’s a “changed man” after it. [break while I got escorted in]- just heard @SenJohnBarrasso say he looks forward to hearing about private investment can accelerate fusion energy.

Passage of the CHIPS and Science Act will be important for American R&D - including in fusion energy. Read more here:fusionindustryassociation.org/post/senate-vo… and in🧵 as the House completes its vote... It extends the authorization for the new inertial fusion R&D program, which will allow @doescience to dig more into laser fusion energy! (but not on sharks...)