Edwin McMillan

Edwin McMillan was an American physicist known for his pioneering work in nuclear chemistry and physics. He played a key role in the discovery of several elements, including neptunium and plutonium, during research on nuclear reactions. McMillan's work involved using particle accelerators to explore how atomic nuclei interact, which contributed significantly to nuclear energy development and weapons technology. His contributions earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1951, highlighting his impact on our understanding of atomic structure and the potential applications of nuclear reactions in various fields, including medicine and energy.