Development prospects and technical problems of nuclear fusion

The basic physical relations which are involved in the processes of thermonuclear energy generation are examined, taking into account the containment of the fusion plasma, the conditions for a self-maintaining fusion reaction, and the theta pinch. Particular attention is given to the development of fusion reactors which utilize the Tokamak design concept. A description is given of the various stages of fusion reactor development. The significance of nuclear fusion for the power economy is examined and advantages of fusion processes in comparison to nuclear fission reactors are pointed out.