Fusion is where two light atomic nuclei combine and release energy, while fission is the process of splitting two heavy, unstable atomic nuclei into two lighter nuclei, also releasing energy – although 50% less than with fusion. Fission products have half-lives of 90 years (samarium-151) or less, except for seven long-lived fission products that have half lives of 211,100 years (technetium-99) or more. Can fusion cause a nuclear accident? No, because fusion energy production is not based on a chain reaction, as is fission. And, of course, any nuclear choice leaves us with a disposal problem.
Altman believes that AI will be helpful in addressing the demand for more energy in tech, therefore he is touting both fusion and fission. Scientists and governments are hoping that AI can better address the environmental, safety and security challenges of both. Nuclear fission isn't actually too difficult to make, whereas fusion is very difficult and expensive. The resources required to make both are dwindling and not easy to find. What is the use of a better design if the raw materials are in short supply now and will shortly no longer be available at all? Maybe the bet is that AI will identify alternative materials (maybe not from earth that will provide the reaction needed) or design a synthetic that will work. Without more energy AI itself can not be sustained.
