Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom
Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom

© Estate of Fritz Goro

Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom
Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom

On view

Photography

Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom,

1939

Fritz Goro, 1901–1986; born Bremen, Germany; died Chappaqua, NY
Printed and published by LIFE magazine
2018-223

Some recent work by E. Fermi and L. Szilard . . . leads me to expect that the element uranium may be turned into a new and important source of energy in the immediate future. Certain aspects of the situation which has arisen seem to call for watchfulness and if necessary, quick action on the part of the Administration. I believe therefore that it is my duty to bring to your attention the following facts and recommendations. . . . This new phenomenon would also lead to the construction of bombs, and it is conceivable—though much less certain—that extremely powerful bombs of a new type may thus be constructed. A single bomb of this type, carried by boat and exploded in a port, might very well destroy the whole port together with some of the surrounding territory. However, such bombs might very well prove too heavy for transportation by air.

Albert Einstein
in a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, August 2, 1939

Information

Title
Nuclear Fission—Splitting of U-235 Atom
Dates

1939

Maker
Fritz Goro
Printed and published by LIFE magazine
Medium
Gelatin silver print
Dimensions
26.7 × 29.2 cm (10 1/2 × 11 1/2 in.) mat: 40.6 × 50.8 cm (16 × 20 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Marthe M. Smith
Object Number
2018-223
Inscription
LIFE book stamp on verso.
Culture
German, American
Type
gelatin silver prints, photographs
Techniques
gelatin silver process
Subject
nuclear physicists, stripes

Marthe M. Smith. Given to the Princeton University Art Museum, 2018.

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