The difference between LENR (Low-Energy Nuclear Reactions) and LENC (Low-Energy Nuclear Conversions) lies in their focus and terminology, though they are closely related and sometimes used interchangeably.
LENR (Low-Energy Nuclear Reactions)
Definition: Refers to nuclear reactions that occur at relatively low energy levels compared to traditional nuclear reactions (e.g., fission or fusion).
Focus: Examines the possibility of energy release from reactions that do not involve high-energy particle collisions or extreme temperatures.
Applications: Often explored as a potential source of clean, sustainable energy.
Examples: Experiments involving palladium, deuterium, or nickel-hydrogen systems.
Field: Associated with cold fusion and controversial due to lack of consistent, reproducible results in mainstream science.
LENC (Low-Energy Nuclear Conversions)
Definition: Focuses specifically on the transformation or conversion of elements or isotopes into different elements or isotopes at low energy.
Focus: Emphasizes the aspect of transmutation rather than energy production alone.
Applications: Potentially used for waste remediation (e.g., converting radioactive waste into stable elements) or producing rare isotopes.
Examples: Claims of transmuting elements like turning cesium into praseodymium in certain experimental setups.
Field: Also overlaps with LENR but is more niche, with particular attention to isotope changes.
Key Distinction
LENR: Broader term encompassing energy release via nuclear reactions.
LENC: Specific to the nuclear conversion or transmutation of materials.