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Fusion glossary

Q

Also called "Fusion Gain." The ratio between the power produced by the fusion reactions and the external power required to sustain them via plasma heating. In ITER, the programmatic goal, Q≥10, signifies delivering ten times more power than that which is consumed by the heating systems. Breakeven corresponds to Q=1; ignition corresponds to Q=infinity. A burning plasma has a Q value of >1.
A quench is an abnormal termination of magnet operation that occurs when part of the superconducting coil loses its superconductive state, and reenters the normal, resistive state. Resistance results in ohmic heating in a specific area; this heat then rapidly causes other areas of the magnet to quench. ITER will be equipped with quench detection systems, and rapid discharge units to dissipate the excess magnet energy during a quench.