The Role of Nuclear Interaction in Muon Catalyzed Deuteron and Tritium Fusion (Physics)

在分子离子(dtu-)+中，氘核和氚被介子限制在一个足够小的区域内，两个原子核之间可以发生聚变。由于这种聚变过程释放出大量的能量，从而提高了将其用于能源生产的可能性。对这种分子的理论研究已经非常广泛。但是，由于缺乏适当的计算框架，在目前的理论计算中，核力的影响还没有得到令人满意的详细处理。本研究将发展一种更好的计算方法来处理这些三体系统，并计算可靠的融合参数。准确了解这些聚变参数对能源生产过程至关重要。互动部分包括就职业机会向女学生提供咨询，以及在主办大学和当地高中就这一主题进行讲座和总结。这些讲座的目的不仅仅是介绍和激发人们对介子催化聚变作为一种可能的新能源的兴趣，而是强调基础能源研究在未来很长一段时间内的重要性。该项目进一步推进了VPW计划的目标，即(1)为女性提供在工程和NSF支持的科学学科中发展职业的机会；(2)通过为在工业、政府和学术机构工作的女性科学家和工程师提供更大的知名度，鼓励女性在科学和工程领域追求职业。通过鼓励妇女参与科学，这是对国家未来科学活力的宝贵投资。

In the molecular ion (dtu-)+, the deuteron and tritium are confined by the muon in a region small enough that fusion between the two nuclei can take place. A large amount of energy is released as a result of this fusion process, thus raising the possibility of using it for energy production. Theoretical studies of this molecule have been extensive. But the effect of the nuclear force has not been dealt with in satisfactory detail in current theoretical calculations, due to lack of a proper computational framework. This research will develop a better calculational method to handle these three-body systems, and to calculate reliable fusion parameters. Accurate knowledge of these fusion parameters are essential for the energy production process. The interactive portion consists of counseling women students on career opportunities, as well as lectures and summaries to be given on this topic at the host unviversity and at local high schools. The purpose of these lectures will not be merely introducing and stimulating interest in muon catalyzed fusion as a possible new energy source, but emphasizing the importance of basic energy research for the long range future. This project furthers VPW program objectives which are (1) to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in engineering and in the disciplines of science supported by NSF and (2) to encourage women to pursue careers in science and engineering by providing greater visibility for women scientists and engineers employed in industry, government, and academic institutions. By encouraging the participation of women in science, it is a valuable investment in the Nation's future scientific vitality.