Development of the Atomic Bomb

Introduction

Task

Process

Evaluation

Conclusion

Home

Teacher Page

Introduction:

  On August 2, 1939, Albert Einstein sent a letter to President Franklin Roosevelt which would alter the course of history. Einstein believed, along with other scientists, that based upon their research on atomic structure, an extremely powerful new type of bomb could be constructed. This marked the beginning of what became known as the Manhattan Project and would result in the detonation of the world's first atomic bomb.

  This WebQuest will guide you through the history of the development of the atomic bomb and some of the implications of nuclear weapons on today's world. In addition, you will  use your understanding of nuclear chemistry to investigate the science involved in the construction of a nuclear weapon. Finally, you will process what you learned from this assignment by writing an essay dealing with an ethical issue regarding nuclear weapons.