Atomic Energy

Atomic Energy

The use of atomic energy promises vast possibilities for the mankind. In the beginning of this century, Einstein advanced the theory the other. He said that the atom contained vast stores of energy that may be used in thousand ways.

The problem was how to tame the atom and obtain and use its energy. In 1938 Hahn and Stresemann succeeded in splitting the nucleus of an atom of Uranium. Later, It was found that the process of splitting the atom released enormous amounts of energy. Then on 2^nd December, 1942, scientists succeeded in obtaining the first self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.

Today’s reactors which obtain energy from the atom are not very efficient machines. They harness only a fraction of the total energy available in the atom. Even this energy which is actually obtained from the atom is enormous. It is estimated that energy in one pound of uranium is equivalent to that of three million pounds of coal.

The research in the mysteries of the atom is going on in many countries of the world. It is hoped that before long better and more efficient reactors will be built. These will be able to obtain atomic energy at an economical cost. Atoms provide compact from of fuel which provides a vast amount of energy and it also lasts longer.

Atomic energy can be used in many ways and for many purposes. It can also be used to bring peace and prosperity to the whole of this earth. It can also be used to destroy this world and its inhabitants. It can do anything. It can perform miracles if we have the power and wisdom to use if only for peaceful purpose. If we do not possess that much wisdom, man has not many years to live on this earth.