The Manhattan Project was the name given to the development of the atomic bomb in The United States. It is your job as a scientist on this team to research this project and the development of the atomic bomb. It is important to understand how the bomb works in order to make an educated decision as to whether the bomb should be used. The information that you gather will be used to help the group make their ultimate decision. You will also use this information to create your page of the slide show. Use the web sites below to answer the guide questions provided. You may also write down any information that you feel will be useful. You will be required to hand in your research notes at the end of this project. Happy Hunting!
Guide Questions:
What is the Manhattan Project? (Give a brief description)
Who is the scientist in charge?
What is fission?
Briefly explain how an atomic bomb works.
What did the scientists think of their "success" in the July test explosion?
What is the cost of each bomb?
What is the cost of other military weapons?
During group discussion, discuss with the Secretary of War whether using the bomb instead of military action will save money.
Sites to use for research:
http://www.wisegeek.com/how-does-an-atomic-bomb-work.htm
http://www.atomicarchive.com/Fission/Fission1.shtml
http://www.brook.edu/FP/PROJECTS/NUCWCOST/MANHATTN.HTM