Helium-3

Helium-3 (He-3, also written as 3He) is a light, non-radioactive isotope of helium with two protons and one neutron. It is a rare isotope of helium and is sought after for use in nuclear fusion research.

Characteristics

Helium-3 is a gas that has the potential to be used as a fuel in future nuclear fusion power plants. There is very little helium-3 available on the Earth. However, there are thought to be significant supplies on the Moon.

Production and availability

Helium-3 is produced by the nuclear fusion of hydrogen in the Sun. Tiny quantities are brought to the Earth by the solar wind, a stream of charged particles ejected from the Sun's upper atmosphere. However, the Earth's magnetic field deflects the solar wind, preventing it from reaching the Earth's surface and making helium-3 extremely rare in the Earth's atmosphere.

Applications

Helium-3 has potential applications in many fields. It is used in the cooling of cryogenic devices, in the detection of neutrons, and in medical lung imaging. It is also used in research into nuclear fusion, where it is considered a potential fuel for fusion reactors.

See also

• Nuclear fusion
• Helium
• Isotope
• Moon

References

Helium-3 Resources
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