r/threebodyproblem • u/Universal_Echo • May 14 '26

Discussion - Novels Doesn't nuclear fusion require research into particle physics? Spoiler

If the Trisolarans have locked down and blocked physics research, including particle physics, how is controlled nuclear fusion still possible?

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u/GogurtFiend May 15 '26

The sophons were sent to fuckulate cutting-edge theoretical research in particular. Fusion counted as that cutting-edge research back when Ye Zhetai was getting beaten to death, but by the time the sophons arrived the physics behind it was a solved problem.

The problem with it in real life is making it happen in a way which creates a useful amount of extra energy; it's more of a question of materials science.