Irène Joliot-Curie and her husband Frédéric Joliot caught a glimpse of the neutron in their experiments
Smith Archive/Alamy
Destroyer of Worlds
Frank Close (Allen Lane (UK); Basic Books (US))
Frank Close, a particle physicist and University of Oxford professor emeritus, had a unique perspective on radiation’s power after undergoing three weeks of radiotherapy for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2023. This experience, coupled with his grandson’s account of the Tsar Bomba, inspired Close to delve into the complex history of nuclear energy in his book, “Destroyer of Worlds.”
Winner of the Association of British Science Writers prize multiple times, Close’s book explores the deep history of the nuclear age from 1895 to 1965. Starting with the Trinity test blast in 1945, Close delves into pivotal moments in the discovery and utilization of nuclear energy, including the contributions of lesser-known female physicists.
One such physicist highlighted in the book is Lise Meitner, who faced gender discrimination in her scientific career despite her significant discoveries. Close also sheds light on Irène Joliot-Curie, daughter of Marie Skłodowska-Curie and Pierre Curie, and her groundbreaking research with her husband Frédéric Joliot on the neutron.
Close’s narrative also explores the controversial claims of chemist Ida Noddack regarding nuclear fission and the mysterious disappearance of theoretical physicist Ettore Majorana in 1938. Through these stories, Close paints a vivid picture of the collective effort and individual struggles that shaped the nuclear age.
Ultimately, “Destroyer of Worlds” underscores the profound impact of nuclear energy, both as a tool for scientific advancement and a potential threat to humanity. The book serves as a compelling exploration of the complexities and consequences of unlocking the power of the atom.
George Bass is a writer based in Kent, UK
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