The German army under Hitler was attempting to produce a nuclear chain reaction (for a nuclear weapon) using graphite. However, Leo Szilard realized that the graphite needed to be 100% pure. Szilard beat the Germans and demonstrated the first controlled chain reaction on December 2 1942 at the University of Chicago. The proof that a nuclear chain reaction was possible meant that a nuclear weapon was also possible.
Nuclear Chain Reaction
This drawing depicts the historic December 2, 1942, event.
By Mary Bellis, About.com Guide
This drawing depicts the historic Dec. 2, 1942, event the first controlled, self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction.
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