An atomic bomb splits atoms through nuclear fission, creating a devastating explosion. It was invented during WWII as a result of an arms race. The US dropped two bombs on Japan, leading to their surrender. The manufacturing process requires enriched uranium or plutonium to reach critical mass. The bomb produces gamma radiation and fallout. Countries with nuclear capability include the US, Russia, UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, and possibly North Korea, Israel, Iran, and Syria.
An atomic bomb, known as an atomic bomb for short, is a bomb that creates its devastating explosive force by splitting the nuclei of atoms through a process known as nuclear fission. The atomic bomb, while perhaps not the first weapon of mass destruction, certainly gave rise to the term. Although its invention in the mid-20th century is considered one of the most pivotal events in human history, it has only been used in combat twice.
The atomic bomb was invented as a result of the first modern arms race, not between the United States and Russia, but between allied forces, including the United States, in World War II and the Germans. It was believed that whoever possessed the technology for the atomic bomb first would have a distinct advantage and could be the deciding factor in warfare. As it was, the Germans surrendered before either side completed the bomb.
However, attention in World War II then turned to the Japanese. Even though the Germans had surrendered in Europe, war still raged on in the Pacific theater. The first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Another atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. Experiencing the fury of the weapon firsthand twice, Japan surrendered the next day.
While the physics associated with the atomic bomb are difficult, the greatest difficulty in producing the weapon comes from the manufacturing process. The uranium must be 90% enriched in order to be used for such a weapon. Plutonium can also be used. In order for the atomic bomb to explode properly, the fissile material, plutonium or enriched uranium, must reach a critical mass, which will cause the nuclei to split and release an uncontrollable amount of energy. The goal is to make sure the material doesn’t reach critical mass until the desired time.
In addition to the explosive shock waves that will be released, the weapon will also produce gamma radiation and neutrons. This can severely damage and kill living tissue, which is why radiation therapies are often used in the treatment of cancerous tissue. It can become airborne, as particulate matter is blown up and deposited hundreds of miles downwind. This is called fallout.
The list of countries with an atomic bomb, or at least the ability to produce one, is somewhat fluid as new information arrives. However, countries with known nuclear capability include: US, Russia, UK, France, China, India and Pakistan. North Korea may have nuclear weapons, but their exact magnitude is unknown. Israel is also widely considered to have atomic bombs. Also, Iran and Syria are developing such weapons.
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