Energy drives everything — from the evolution of life to the ding notification in our smartphones — and with humanity facing a climate crisis from the way we use it, understanding energy has never been more important. At Live Science, our expert writers and editors bring you facts about crude oil and other fossil fuels that are harming the planet, guide you through the renewable energy sources that may replace them, and cover groundbreaking energy research — be it nuclear fusion or an enzyme that can turn air into energy — to ensure you get the best energy news, features and articles.
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Just a fraction of the hydrogen hidden beneath Earth's surface could power Earth for 200 years, scientists find
Trillions of tons of hydrogen gas are likely buried in rocks and reservoirs beneath Earth's surface, but researchers aren't sure where it is yet.
Physicists solve nuclear fusion mystery with mayonnaise
The same physics that underlie mayonnaise could help physicists corral the ultrahot plasma needed to produce nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fusion reactor in UK sets new world record for energy output
The JET nuclear fusion reactor in the UK has set a new world record for total energy output. However, the reactor's record-smashing test will be its last.
Massive hydrogen reservoir discovered beneath an Albanian mine could be an untapped source of clean energy
A portion of ancient oceanic crust that sits atop Albania and hosts one of the largest chromium mines on Earth also contains a huge hydrogen reservoir, offering a potential source of clean energy.
What is fission?
Fission is the process by which an atom splits into two, generating two smaller atoms and a tremendous amount of energy. Fission powers nuclear bombs and power plants.
Wind and solar power overtakes coal for the first time ever in the US
Wind and solar power produced a combined 252 terawatt-hours in the first five months of 2023, compared with coal's output of 249 TWh
Chernobyl: The world's worst nuclear disaster
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant explosion resulted in the most horrific nuclear disaster in the world.
How do you decontaminate objects exposed to radioactivity?
Can a person or object exposed to high radioactivity just take a shower with soap and water, or is more needed for decontamination?
