Guide Note:
The extreme explosive power of nuclear weapons comes from the energy released from nuclear fusion or fission. Nuclear fission occurs when the nucleus of an atom is split, usually using uranium. Nuclear fusion is achieved by combining two smaller atoms to produce one larger atom. Both reactions produce immense quantities of radiation and heat energy, which can be extremely destructive.
The first nuclear weapons were developed in the United States by an international team of scientists during World War II, mostly out of fear that the Nazis would discover the technology first and use it against the Allies.
Although many tests have been performed by various countries throughout the world, the only instance of aggressive nuclear action was that taken by the United States against Japan near the end of World War II, when bombs were dropped on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Fast Facts:
- First nuclear weapons developed as part of the Manhattan Project
- A-Bombs (atomic bombs) use atomic fission
- H-Bombs (hydrogen bombs) use atomic fusion
- Japan bombings immediately killed 120,000 people
Quote:
"Through the release of atomic energy, our generation has brought into the world the most revolutionary force since prehistoric man's discovery of fire."—Albert Einstein
