Warp core
The warp core is the main energy reactor that powers the warp drive propulsion system aboard warp-capable starships.
Aboard Federation starships, the warp core consists of a matter/antimatter reaction assembly (M/ARA) that uses deuterium and antideuterium reacting in a dilithium crystal matrix which produces a maximum output of 4,000 teradynes per second.
Most Federation warp cores consist of a large warp core unit in the secondary hull with matter and antimatter channeling into the core through vertical conduits, followed by the energy being directed to the nacelles through a horizontal conduit leading out from the rear of the core. This task is requires various sensors and other monitoring and control equipment to function within the chamber. The addition of dilithium to regulate and control the reaction, while allowing far higher efficiency and so increasing the power output, has also lead to ever more complex designs - most especially in more recent starships which are designed to allow continual recompositing of the dilithium whilst in use.
Warp cores on starships leave resonance traces, allowing for the ability to track vessels.
In extreme situations where a breach of the warp core is imminent, Federation starships are designed to be able to disconnect the core from their supporting systems and eject it into space. On occasion this will allow both core and ship to be preserved, allowing the core to be recovered and re-mounted. Core ejection systems were not always effective, and could be neutralized by battle damage.
