First Controlled Self-Sustaining Nuclear Chain Reaction

Under Enrico Fermi's leadership, Chicago Pile-1 achieved the first controlled self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction, a major milestone in experimental nuclear physics.

Under Enrico Fermi's leadership, Chicago Pile-1 achieved a controlled self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction in Chicago. It was a major milestone in experimental nuclear physics.

The pile contained graphite and uranium, with the reaction controlled by neutron-absorbing rods. The event opened the practical era of nuclear reactors while also being directly connected to wartime research.

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