Nuclear Weapons

Definition

Powerful explosive devices that derive their destructive force from nuclear reactions - either fission or a combination of fission and fusion.

Analogy

Imagine a tiny seed (the nucleus of an atom) holding immense energy within it. When conditions are right (like when hit by a neutron), this energy can be released causing massive destruction - much like how a small spark can ignite a huge forest fire.

Related terms

Manhattan Project: The research project during World War II that resulted in the creation of nuclear weapons by the United States.

Hiroshima/Nagasaki Bombings: These were devastating nuclear attacks on Japan by U.S forces during World War II using atomic bombs developed under Manhattan Project.

Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT): An international treaty aimed at preventing spread of nuclear weapons and promoting disarmament.