key term - Otto Hahn

Definition

Otto Hahn was a German chemist who is best known for his role in the discovery of nuclear fission, which is the process where the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. His groundbreaking work in the early 20th century laid the foundation for both nuclear energy and atomic weapons, making him a pivotal figure in the history of nuclear physics and chemistry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hahn conducted his major experiments on nuclear fission in collaboration with his assistant Fritz Strassmann and physicist Lise Meitner.
2. In 1938, Hahn and Strassmann's experiments led to the discovery that when uranium was bombarded with neutrons, it produced barium, indicating that fission had occurred.
3. Hahn was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1944 for his discoveries related to nuclear fission.
4. His work on nuclear fission played a crucial role during World War II, influencing both the development of atomic bombs and subsequent debates about nuclear energy.
5. Hahn was a proponent of peaceful uses of nuclear energy and later became an advocate against nuclear weapons following the war.

Review Questions

• What were Otto Hahn's contributions to the understanding of nuclear fission and how did it change scientific perspectives?
  • Otto Hahn's contributions to the understanding of nuclear fission were monumental as he discovered that uranium nuclei could be split into lighter elements when bombarded with neutrons. This revelation shifted scientific perspectives by revealing the potential for harnessing atomic energy, opening new avenues in both energy production and weaponry. His findings not only advanced chemistry and physics but also raised ethical considerations about the use of nuclear technology.
• Analyze how Hahn's collaboration with other scientists influenced his discoveries and their impact on future research in nuclear physics.
  • Hahn's collaboration with Fritz Strassmann and Lise Meitner was critical in the verification and interpretation of the results that led to the discovery of nuclear fission. Their combined expertise allowed for rigorous experimentation and theoretical analysis, significantly enhancing the credibility of their findings. This collaboration set a precedent for future research in nuclear physics, emphasizing teamwork in scientific breakthroughs, while also highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches.
• Evaluate the implications of Otto Hahn's discovery of nuclear fission on society and international relations during and after World War II.
  • The discovery of nuclear fission by Otto Hahn had profound implications on society and international relations, particularly during and after World War II. It catalyzed the development of atomic bombs, which transformed warfare and global power dynamics. After the war, it initiated a complex dialogue around nuclear energy as a source for peaceful purposes versus its potential for destruction. This duality influenced policies on nuclear arms control and contributed to ongoing debates about safety, ethics, and environmental impacts associated with nuclear technology.

Related terms

Nuclear Fission: The process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy and neutrons.

Uranium-235: An isotope of uranium that is capable of sustaining a nuclear chain reaction and is commonly used as fuel in nuclear reactors.

Chain Reaction:

A series of reactions where the products of one reaction initiate subsequent reactions, often seen in nuclear fission where released neutrons trigger further fissions.