Nuclear weapon

Nuclear weapon is a device designed to release energy in an explosive manner as a result of nuclear fission, nuclear fusion, or a combination of the two processes. Fission weapons are commonly referred to as atomic bombs, and fusion weapons are referred to as thermonuclear bombs or, more commonly, hydrogen bombs.

History

The first nuclear weapons were developed by the United States during World War II in what was called the Manhattan Project. The project was led by the United States with the support of the United Kingdom and Canada. The first nuclear weapon was detonated in a test called Trinity in July 1945.

Types of Nuclear Weapons

There are two basic types of nuclear weapons: those that derive the majority of their energy from nuclear fission reactions alone, and those that use fission reactions to begin nuclear fusion reactions that produce a large amount of the total energy output.

Fission Weapons

Fission weapons, also known as atomic bombs, use a nuclear reaction to cause an explosion. The most commonly known fission weapon is the Little Boy, which was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945.

Fusion Weapons

Fusion weapons, also known as hydrogen bombs or H-bombs, use a nuclear fusion reaction to cause an explosion. The most commonly known fusion weapon is the Tsar Bomba, which was detonated by the Soviet Union in 1961.

Effects of Nuclear Weapons

The effects of nuclear weapons are devastating and far-reaching. They include immediate effects such as blast damage and thermal radiation, as well as long-term effects such as radiation sickness and environmental damage.

Nuclear Weapon Proliferation

Nuclear proliferation is the spread of nuclear weapons, fissionable material, and weapons-applicable nuclear technology and information to nations not recognized as "Nuclear Weapon States" by the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

See Also

• Nuclear warfare
• Nuclear strategy
• Nuclear disarmament
• Effects of nuclear explosions
• History of nuclear weapons

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