Atomic Energy and Quantum Mechnanics

How Fission works 

An atomic bomb works by splitting the nuclei of atoms of uranium-235 or plutonium-239. This process, called nuclear fission, releases a tremendous amount of energy in the form of heat, light, and radiation.

The first step in an atomic bomb explosion is to assemble the fissionable material into a critical mass. This is the minimum mass of fissionable material that is needed to sustain a chain reaction. Once the critical mass is assembled, a neutron is introduced into the material. This neutron can then split an atom of uranium-235 or plutonium-239, releasing two or three more neutrons. These neutrons then go on to split other atoms, creating a chain reaction.

The chain reaction releases a tremendous amount of energy in a very short period of time. This energy causes the bomb to explode, creating a fireball, a shock wave, and a radioactive cloud.

The amount of energy released by an atomic bomb is enormous. The bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 released the equivalent of 15 kilotons of TNT. The bomb that was dropped on Nagasaki released the equivalent of 21 kilotons of TNT.

The effects of an atomic bomb explosion are devastating. The fireball can reach temperatures of up to 10 million degrees Celsius, and the shock wave can level buildings and structures. The radioactive cloud can spread for miles, exposing people to harmful radiation.

Atomic bombs are weapons of mass destruction. They have the potential to kill millions of people and cause widespread devastation. The use of atomic bombs is a moral and ethical issue that has been debated for decades.