Lise Meitner's Theory of Nuclear Fission

Lise Meitner's work helped explain nuclear fission, a process where a heavy atom like uranium splits into smaller nuclei when struck by a neutron. This splitting releases a significant amount of energy and additional neutrons, which can trigger further fissions—creating a chain reaction. Her research identified how the nucleus absorbs the neutron, becomes unstable, and splits, releasing energy that can be harnessed for power or weapons. This discovery was fundamental in understanding nuclear energy and the development of nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.