TallDave wrote:You'd need to be able to detect fusion events and know how many ions are participating before you can question that maths with experimental results
What makes you think he hasn't done that?
Because've what hasn't been said.
TallDave wrote:
I've not offered any equations with 'density' and 'reaction rate' in it. But if the density increases, the MFP to fusion decreases, the number of reciprocations across the space decreases (what you're talking about is embedded in that 'line') so the time to fusion decreases.
I'm not sure why you would do a calculation without density, or how it could be meaningful.
I did, of course. It just didn't appear on the same line as 'reation rate' so I don't think Dan spotted it.
TallDave wrote:
Anyways, Rick did a calc way back on what Polywell densities might be with giant magnets comparable to ITER's.
rnebel wrote:The 2.5e22 density is what is required to achieve Beta = 1 on a big machine.
Extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof. Sure, if 1millibar can be achieved then the numbers change. Only 10million recirculations. Rewind and note I said that these numbers would have to be done with an early DD version, if there were ever to be any funding to get to machines working to these fantastical specifications. So the question remains, for WB-7/8, these must surely be relying on these lower energy, lower density environments, with DD. What'd'you think the success will be if the deuterons need to average 7000s residence? Which in turn implicitly asks; what'd'you think the chances of the next phase of machines is?
TallDave wrote:
Indeed. Why, you might even claim to have a working fusion reactor design.
Many have claimed such a thing. Even Culham itself with Zeta? None have yet succeeded. The odds are not good for those who merely 'claim'. On Polywell, we hope, we wait, the clouds roll by in the wind, and we wait a little longer - for something, anything, a shred of tiny information. I'm hopeful, I just sound like an old croaky, but I am hopeful and wish it well. Never said anything different. I'm just trying to face reality, and perhaps by me pointing out issues, others will see solutions. I don't, at this time.
TallDave wrote:
You have to be careful with applying Lawson's to a Polywell. Lawson's assumes a Maxwellian distribution when it calculates the fusion rate. Also, it has to do with ignition, which doesn't apply to a Polywell at all.
Not used it. I don't see it is relevant to Polywell and wouldn't use it. I seem to recall Art and I bashing that one around some time ago. Not sure why you've raised it.