MEITNER, Lise (1878-1968) and Otto Robert FRISCH (1904-1979). "Disintegration of Uranium by Neutrons: A New Type of Nuclear Reaction." In: Nature. Vol. 143, No. 3615 pp.239-41. London: MacMillan and Co., Ltd., February 11, 1939.
4to. Modern half blue morocco gilt, marbled boards.  THE FIRST EXPLANATION OF NUCLEAR FISSION.  FIRST EDITION, journal issue. "In 1938 Hahn and Strassmann announced their discovery of barium isotopes among the decay products produced by neutron bombardment of uranium. Hahn and Strassmann had in fact discovered nuclear fission" (Norman). Unsure of how to interpret their results, Hahn and Strassmann wrote a letter to Hahn's former colleague, Lise Meitner. Working with her nephew, Otto Frisch, they calculated the large amount of energy that would be released during the fission process. Understanding the importance of her findings, Meitner refused an invitation to work on the development of a nuclear fission bomb, and hoped the project would not be a success.  Norman 1487; PMM 422b.

For condition inquiries please contact Gretchen Hause at gretchenhause@hindmanauctions.com