Richard Rhodes

The Making of the Atomic Bomb

1. IDEA 1

   Physics revealed enormous power

   Rhodes tells how physicists in the early twentieth century discovered the structure of the atom. Their work revealed that atoms contained vast energy, which could, in theory, be released. Few understood the consequences.

2. IDEA 2

   Szilard imagined a chain reaction

   Rhodes describes how Leo Szilard, crossing a London street in 1933, imagined a nuclear chain reaction. He realised this could produce enormous energy, and also a weapon. Few people listened at first.

3. IDEA 3

   Fission was discovered

   In 1938, scientists in Germany discovered nuclear fission, the splitting of uranium atoms. Physicists quickly realised its potential for a bomb. Fear spread that Germany would build one first. Time seemed short.

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