What materials are needed to make an atomic bomb?

To make an atomic bomb, several key materials are required. The primary ingredient is a fissile material, typically highly enriched uranium (HEU) or plutonium-239 (Pu-239). HEU is obtained by enriching natural uranium to increase the concentration of U-235 isotope, while Pu-239 is obtained by irradiating reactor-grade plutonium or by reprocessing spent nuclear fuel. Additionally, neutrons are needed to initiate the chain reaction, which can be achieved using a neutron initiator like beryllium-beryllium oxide or polonium-beryllium. Moreover, conventional explosives, such as TNT or RDX, are needed to compress the fissile material and achieve the critical mass required for a successful detonation. These materials must be carefully acquired and handled due to their highly dangerous and destructive nature. The knowledge and expertise required to assemble an atomic bomb pose significant challenges in terms of proliferation and global security.

This mind map was published on 25 October 2023 and has been viewed 156 times.