All language subtitles for Why Oppenheimer Deserves His Own Movie

af Afrikaans
sq Albanian
am Amharic
ar Arabic
hy Armenian
az Azerbaijani
eu Basque
be Belarusian
bn Bengali
bs Bosnian
bg Bulgarian
ca Catalan
ceb Cebuano
ny Chichewa
zh-CN Chinese (Simplified)
zh-TW Chinese (Traditional) Download
co Corsican
hr Croatian
cs Czech
da Danish
nl Dutch
en English
eo Esperanto
et Estonian
tl Filipino
fi Finnish
fr French
fy Frisian
gl Galician
ka Georgian
de German
el Greek
gu Gujarati
ht Haitian Creole
ha Hausa
haw Hawaiian
iw Hebrew
hi Hindi
hmn Hmong
hu Hungarian
is Icelandic
ig Igbo
id Indonesian
ga Irish
it Italian
ja Japanese
jw Javanese
kn Kannada
kk Kazakh
km Khmer
ko Korean
ku Kurdish (Kurmanji)
ky Kyrgyz
lo Lao
la Latin
lv Latvian
lt Lithuanian
lb Luxembourgish
mk Macedonian
mg Malagasy
ms Malay
ml Malayalam
mt Maltese
mi Maori
mr Marathi
mn Mongolian
my Myanmar (Burmese)
ne Nepali
no Norwegian
ps Pashto
fa Persian
pl Polish
pt Portuguese
pa Punjabi
ro Romanian
ru Russian
sm Samoan
gd Scots Gaelic
sr Serbian
st Sesotho
sn Shona
sd Sindhi
si Sinhala
sk Slovak
sl Slovenian
so Somali
es Spanish
su Sundanese
sw Swahili
sv Swedish
tg Tajik
ta Tamil
te Telugu
th Thai
tr Turkish
uk Ukrainian
ur Urdu
uz Uzbek
vi Vietnamese
cy Welsh
xh Xhosa
yi Yiddish
yo Yoruba
zu Zulu
or Odia (Oriya)
rw Kinyarwanda
tk Turkmen
tt Tatar
ug Uyghur
Would you like to inspect the original subtitles? These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:00,240 2 00:00:00,240 --> 00:00:01,560 J. Robert Oppenheimer 3 00:00:01,560 --> 00:00:02,520 might be the most important physicist 4 00:00:02,520 --> 00:00:03,840 might be the most important physicist 5 00:00:03,840 --> 00:00:05,279 to have ever lived. 6 00:00:05,279 --> 00:00:05,400 to have ever lived. 7 00:00:05,400 --> 00:00:07,260 He never won a Nobel Prize, 8 00:00:07,260 --> 00:00:07,799 but he changed the world more than most Nobel Prize winners. 9 00:00:07,799 --> 00:00:10,200 but he changed the world more than most Nobel Prize winners. 10 00:00:10,200 --> 00:00:11,460 but he changed the world more than most Nobel Prize winners. 11 00:00:11,460 --> 00:00:12,630 Under his leadership, 12 00:00:12,630 --> 00:00:13,080 the best physicists of the 20th century 13 00:00:13,080 --> 00:00:15,179 the best physicists of the 20th century 14 00:00:15,179 --> 00:00:15,360 the best physicists of the 20th century 15 00:00:15,360 --> 00:00:17,400 built the atomic bomb 16 00:00:17,400 --> 00:00:18,420 forever changing the course of history. 17 00:00:18,420 --> 00:00:20,220 forever changing the course of history. 18 00:00:20,220 --> 00:00:20,880 - If there is another world war, 19 00:00:20,880 --> 00:00:22,860 - If there is another world war, 20 00:00:22,860 --> 00:00:25,019 this civilization may go under. 21 00:00:25,019 --> 00:00:26,430 this civilization may go under. 22 00:00:26,430 --> 00:00:28,859 - [Derek] He has affected every war waged 23 00:00:28,859 --> 00:00:28,860 - [Derek] He has affected every war waged 24 00:00:28,860 --> 00:00:31,140 and every peace settled since the end of World War ii. 25 00:00:31,140 --> 00:00:32,167 and every peace settled since the end of World War ii. 26 00:00:32,167 --> 00:00:32,460 He also created a way for humanity to destroy itself. 27 00:00:32,460 --> 00:00:35,820 He also created a way for humanity to destroy itself. 28 00:00:35,820 --> 00:00:37,080 He also created a way for humanity to destroy itself. 29 00:00:37,080 --> 00:00:38,463 - Now I am become death, 30 00:00:38,463 --> 00:00:39,510 31 00:00:39,510 --> 00:00:39,660 the destroyer of worlds. 32 00:00:39,660 --> 00:00:41,013 the destroyer of worlds. 33 00:00:41,013 --> 00:00:41,879 34 00:00:41,879 --> 00:00:42,000 35 00:00:42,000 --> 00:00:44,100 - [Derek] This video is about how to build an atomic bomb, 36 00:00:44,100 --> 00:00:45,060 - [Derek] This video is about how to build an atomic bomb, 37 00:00:45,060 --> 00:00:46,800 the life of Oppenheimer, 38 00:00:46,800 --> 00:00:47,160 and why serious scientists were worried about the explosion 39 00:00:47,160 --> 00:00:49,079 and why serious scientists were worried about the explosion 40 00:00:49,079 --> 00:00:50,400 and why serious scientists were worried about the explosion 41 00:00:50,400 --> 00:00:51,840 setting fire to the atmosphere, 42 00:00:51,840 --> 00:00:52,800 setting fire to the atmosphere, 43 00:00:52,800 --> 00:00:54,453 ending all life on earth. 44 00:00:54,453 --> 00:00:56,360 45 00:00:56,460 --> 00:00:56,520 46 00:00:56,520 --> 00:00:58,379 Part of this video is brought to you by Wren. 47 00:00:58,379 --> 00:00:58,773 Part of this video is brought to you by Wren. 48 00:00:58,773 --> 00:01:00,739 49 00:01:01,559 --> 00:01:01,650 50 00:01:01,650 --> 00:01:04,260 When J. Robert Oppenheimer was 21, 51 00:01:04,260 --> 00:01:04,680 he placed an apple laced with toxic chemicals 52 00:01:04,680 --> 00:01:06,720 he placed an apple laced with toxic chemicals 53 00:01:06,720 --> 00:01:07,320 he placed an apple laced with toxic chemicals 54 00:01:07,320 --> 00:01:08,640 on the desk of his physics tutor. 55 00:01:08,640 --> 00:01:09,179 on the desk of his physics tutor. 56 00:01:09,179 --> 00:01:11,250 The tutor, Patrick Blackett, 57 00:01:11,250 --> 00:01:11,939 was an experimentalist and he had hounded Robert 58 00:01:11,939 --> 00:01:13,740 was an experimentalist and he had hounded Robert 59 00:01:13,740 --> 00:01:14,070 was an experimentalist and he had hounded Robert 60 00:01:14,070 --> 00:01:15,540 to do more of what he thought 61 00:01:15,540 --> 00:01:18,119 Robert wasn't very good at, experimental work. 62 00:01:18,119 --> 00:01:18,584 Robert wasn't very good at, experimental work. 63 00:01:18,584 --> 00:01:20,400 Oppenheimer had already been spending his days in a corner 64 00:01:20,400 --> 00:01:21,810 Oppenheimer had already been spending his days in a corner 65 00:01:21,810 --> 00:01:22,320 of JJ Thompson's basement laboratory, 66 00:01:22,320 --> 00:01:23,880 of JJ Thompson's basement laboratory, 67 00:01:23,880 --> 00:01:24,060 of JJ Thompson's basement laboratory, 68 00:01:24,060 --> 00:01:25,799 attempting to make thin films of beryllium, 69 00:01:25,799 --> 00:01:26,460 attempting to make thin films of beryllium, 70 00:01:26,460 --> 00:01:27,960 which were used to study electrons. 71 00:01:27,960 --> 00:01:28,950 which were used to study electrons. 72 00:01:28,950 --> 00:01:31,259 But Oppenheimer was clumsy and not good at this work. 73 00:01:31,259 --> 00:01:32,463 But Oppenheimer was clumsy and not good at this work. 74 00:01:32,463 --> 00:01:33,720 75 00:01:33,720 --> 00:01:33,870 76 00:01:33,870 --> 00:01:35,939 He was soon avoiding his duties in the lab, 77 00:01:35,939 --> 00:01:36,240 He was soon avoiding his duties in the lab, 78 00:01:36,240 --> 00:01:37,740 spending his time listening to lectures 79 00:01:37,740 --> 00:01:38,100 spending his time listening to lectures 80 00:01:38,100 --> 00:01:39,900 and reading physics journals. 81 00:01:39,900 --> 00:01:40,200 It was 1925 and the 21 year old Oppenheimer was becoming 82 00:01:40,200 --> 00:01:43,140 It was 1925 and the 21 year old Oppenheimer was becoming 83 00:01:43,140 --> 00:01:43,680 It was 1925 and the 21 year old Oppenheimer was becoming 84 00:01:43,680 --> 00:01:45,180 fascinated by the new field of quantum mechanics. 85 00:01:45,180 --> 00:01:46,623 fascinated by the new field of quantum mechanics. 86 00:01:46,623 --> 00:01:47,400 87 00:01:47,400 --> 00:01:47,520 88 00:01:47,520 --> 00:01:49,920 Despite being surrounded by brilliant physicists 89 00:01:49,920 --> 00:01:50,550 Despite being surrounded by brilliant physicists 90 00:01:50,550 --> 00:01:52,579 like Rutherford and Chadwick, 91 00:01:52,579 --> 00:01:52,740 like Rutherford and Chadwick, 92 00:01:52,740 --> 00:01:55,380 Oppenheimer was deeply unhappy. 93 00:01:55,380 --> 00:01:55,920 He wrote, "I'm having a pretty bad time. 94 00:01:55,920 --> 00:01:58,110 He wrote, "I'm having a pretty bad time. 95 00:01:58,110 --> 00:01:58,740 The lab work is a terrible bore, 96 00:01:58,740 --> 00:02:00,060 The lab work is a terrible bore, 97 00:02:00,060 --> 00:02:01,259 and I'm so bad at it that it's impossible to feel 98 00:02:01,259 --> 00:02:03,090 and I'm so bad at it that it's impossible to feel 99 00:02:03,090 --> 00:02:03,299 that I'm learning anything." 100 00:02:03,299 --> 00:02:04,518 that I'm learning anything." 101 00:02:04,518 --> 00:02:04,860 A friend walked in on him, 102 00:02:04,860 --> 00:02:06,060 A friend walked in on him, 103 00:02:06,060 --> 00:02:06,780 lying on the floor of his room, 104 00:02:06,780 --> 00:02:07,500 lying on the floor of his room, 105 00:02:07,500 --> 00:02:08,818 which he called "A miserable hole", 106 00:02:08,818 --> 00:02:10,080 which he called "A miserable hole", 107 00:02:10,080 --> 00:02:11,700 groaning and rolling from side to side in emotional anguish. 108 00:02:11,700 --> 00:02:13,925 groaning and rolling from side to side in emotional anguish. 109 00:02:13,925 --> 00:02:14,160 It was in this state that Robert 110 00:02:14,160 --> 00:02:16,440 It was in this state that Robert 111 00:02:16,440 --> 00:02:16,620 It was in this state that Robert 112 00:02:16,620 --> 00:02:18,959 attempted to poison Blackett. 113 00:02:18,959 --> 00:02:19,080 attempted to poison Blackett. 114 00:02:19,080 --> 00:02:21,150 The specifics are lost to history. 115 00:02:21,150 --> 00:02:21,480 There are conflicting reports if Oppenheimer used cyanide 116 00:02:21,480 --> 00:02:23,280 There are conflicting reports if Oppenheimer used cyanide 117 00:02:23,280 --> 00:02:23,957 There are conflicting reports if Oppenheimer used cyanide 118 00:02:23,957 --> 00:02:25,680 or something he found in the lab, 119 00:02:25,680 --> 00:02:26,010 or something he found in the lab, 120 00:02:26,010 --> 00:02:27,000 which would've just made Blackett sick. 121 00:02:27,000 --> 00:02:28,500 which would've just made Blackett sick. 122 00:02:28,500 --> 00:02:28,590 which would've just made Blackett sick. 123 00:02:28,590 --> 00:02:30,525 This story sounds unbelievable, 124 00:02:30,525 --> 00:02:31,319 but Oppenheimer himself confirmed it. 125 00:02:31,319 --> 00:02:33,597 but Oppenheimer himself confirmed it. 126 00:02:33,597 --> 00:02:34,620 Luckily, Blackett did not eat the apple, 127 00:02:34,620 --> 00:02:36,524 Luckily, Blackett did not eat the apple, 128 00:02:36,524 --> 00:02:37,379 but the attempted poisoning became known 129 00:02:37,379 --> 00:02:39,000 but the attempted poisoning became known 130 00:02:39,000 --> 00:02:39,300 to the Cambridge University authorities. 131 00:02:39,300 --> 00:02:41,640 to the Cambridge University authorities. 132 00:02:41,640 --> 00:02:41,790 to the Cambridge University authorities. 133 00:02:41,790 --> 00:02:43,440 Robert's parents were visiting their son 134 00:02:43,440 --> 00:02:43,560 from the US at the time, 135 00:02:43,560 --> 00:02:44,610 from the US at the time, 136 00:02:44,610 --> 00:02:45,599 and Julius Oppenheimer successfully lobbied Cambridge 137 00:02:45,599 --> 00:02:47,400 and Julius Oppenheimer successfully lobbied Cambridge 138 00:02:47,400 --> 00:02:48,030 and Julius Oppenheimer successfully lobbied Cambridge 139 00:02:48,030 --> 00:02:49,860 not to press criminal charges. Due to his family's wealth, 140 00:02:49,860 --> 00:02:51,630 not to press criminal charges. Due to his family's wealth, 141 00:02:51,630 --> 00:02:52,440 Robert wasn't even expelled from Cambridge 142 00:02:52,440 --> 00:02:53,970 Robert wasn't even expelled from Cambridge 143 00:02:53,970 --> 00:02:54,420 on the condition that he had periodic counseling sessions 144 00:02:54,420 --> 00:02:56,099 on the condition that he had periodic counseling sessions 145 00:02:56,099 --> 00:02:56,499 on the condition that he had periodic counseling sessions 146 00:02:56,499 --> 00:02:57,959 with a psychiatrist in London. 147 00:02:57,959 --> 00:02:59,207 with a psychiatrist in London. 148 00:02:59,207 --> 00:02:59,330 (train horn blaring) 149 00:02:59,330 --> 00:02:59,600 (train horn blaring) 150 00:02:59,600 --> 00:03:01,140 (train horn blaring) 151 00:03:01,140 --> 00:03:01,260 (train horn blaring) 152 00:03:01,260 --> 00:03:02,640 In the summer of 1926, 153 00:03:02,640 --> 00:03:04,019 Robert traveled to the University of Göttingen. 154 00:03:04,019 --> 00:03:05,700 Robert traveled to the University of Göttingen. 155 00:03:05,700 --> 00:03:06,360 The chairman of the department was Max Born, 156 00:03:06,360 --> 00:03:08,130 The chairman of the department was Max Born, 157 00:03:08,130 --> 00:03:08,459 who just two years earlier had coined the term, 158 00:03:08,459 --> 00:03:10,980 who just two years earlier had coined the term, 159 00:03:10,980 --> 00:03:11,269 who just two years earlier had coined the term, 160 00:03:11,269 --> 00:03:13,200 "Quantum Mechanics". 161 00:03:13,200 --> 00:03:13,260 "Quantum Mechanics". 162 00:03:13,260 --> 00:03:15,599 Born was reportedly a thoughtful and gentle teacher 163 00:03:15,599 --> 00:03:16,440 Born was reportedly a thoughtful and gentle teacher 164 00:03:16,440 --> 00:03:17,580 and had nurtured the work of Werner Heisenberg, 165 00:03:17,580 --> 00:03:18,930 and had nurtured the work of Werner Heisenberg, 166 00:03:18,930 --> 00:03:20,099 Wolfgang Pauli, Enrico Fermi, 167 00:03:20,099 --> 00:03:21,030 Wolfgang Pauli, Enrico Fermi, 168 00:03:21,030 --> 00:03:22,290 and Eugene Wigner, 169 00:03:22,290 --> 00:03:22,860 basically the who's who of quantum mechanics. 170 00:03:22,860 --> 00:03:24,678 basically the who's who of quantum mechanics. 171 00:03:24,678 --> 00:03:25,319 The class that Oppenheimer was in was also extraordinary, 172 00:03:25,319 --> 00:03:27,420 The class that Oppenheimer was in was also extraordinary, 173 00:03:27,420 --> 00:03:28,140 The class that Oppenheimer was in was also extraordinary, 174 00:03:28,140 --> 00:03:29,459 including luminaries like Paul Dirac and John Von Neumann, 175 00:03:29,459 --> 00:03:31,383 including luminaries like Paul Dirac and John Von Neumann, 176 00:03:31,383 --> 00:03:32,099 177 00:03:32,099 --> 00:03:32,220 178 00:03:32,220 --> 00:03:34,080 where the academic culture at Cambridge focused on 179 00:03:34,080 --> 00:03:34,130 where the academic culture at Cambridge focused on 180 00:03:34,130 --> 00:03:35,819 experimental physics. 181 00:03:35,819 --> 00:03:36,090 experimental physics. 182 00:03:36,090 --> 00:03:38,099 Göttingen was all about theoretical physics, 183 00:03:38,099 --> 00:03:38,700 Göttingen was all about theoretical physics, 184 00:03:38,700 --> 00:03:40,440 and under Max Born's mentorship, 185 00:03:40,440 --> 00:03:41,040 and under Max Born's mentorship, 186 00:03:41,040 --> 00:03:42,660 Oppenheimer thrived. 187 00:03:42,660 --> 00:03:43,200 His mental health improved, 188 00:03:43,200 --> 00:03:44,280 His mental health improved, 189 00:03:44,280 --> 00:03:45,000 and he found a community of people who were 190 00:03:45,000 --> 00:03:46,320 and he found a community of people who were 191 00:03:46,320 --> 00:03:47,159 as obsessed with physics as he was. 192 00:03:47,159 --> 00:03:49,023 as obsessed with physics as he was. 193 00:03:49,023 --> 00:03:49,799 194 00:03:49,799 --> 00:03:49,980 195 00:03:49,980 --> 00:03:52,200 On November 14th, 1926, 196 00:03:52,200 --> 00:03:53,220 Robert wrote to Frank, his younger brother, 197 00:03:53,220 --> 00:03:54,596 Robert wrote to Frank, his younger brother, 198 00:03:54,596 --> 00:03:55,680 "You would like Göttingen. 199 00:03:55,680 --> 00:03:56,520 "You would like Göttingen. 200 00:03:56,520 --> 00:03:58,080 I find the work hard, thank God, 201 00:03:58,080 --> 00:03:58,620 I find the work hard, thank God, 202 00:03:58,620 --> 00:04:00,540 and almost pleasant." 203 00:04:00,540 --> 00:04:00,690 and almost pleasant." 204 00:04:00,690 --> 00:04:03,120 Robert was thriving and his talent was being recognized. 205 00:04:03,120 --> 00:04:04,290 Robert was thriving and his talent was being recognized. 206 00:04:04,290 --> 00:04:05,257 Born later wrote, 207 00:04:05,257 --> 00:04:05,700 "He was a man of great talent and he was conscious 208 00:04:05,700 --> 00:04:07,860 "He was a man of great talent and he was conscious 209 00:04:07,860 --> 00:04:08,250 "He was a man of great talent and he was conscious 210 00:04:08,250 --> 00:04:10,080 of his superiority in a way which was embarrassing 211 00:04:10,080 --> 00:04:11,190 of his superiority in a way which was embarrassing 212 00:04:11,190 --> 00:04:11,819 and led to trouble." 213 00:04:11,819 --> 00:04:12,297 and led to trouble." 214 00:04:12,297 --> 00:04:13,019 215 00:04:13,019 --> 00:04:13,200 216 00:04:13,200 --> 00:04:14,880 When Oppenheimer was 23, 217 00:04:14,880 --> 00:04:15,659 he graduated with his PhD in physics. 218 00:04:15,659 --> 00:04:17,430 he graduated with his PhD in physics. 219 00:04:17,430 --> 00:04:18,180 He wrote his thesis in German on the quantum theory 220 00:04:18,180 --> 00:04:20,550 He wrote his thesis in German on the quantum theory 221 00:04:20,550 --> 00:04:20,579 of continuous spectra. 222 00:04:20,579 --> 00:04:22,171 of continuous spectra. 223 00:04:22,171 --> 00:04:23,070 All in all, 224 00:04:23,070 --> 00:04:23,340 he published more than a dozen papers 225 00:04:23,340 --> 00:04:24,585 he published more than a dozen papers 226 00:04:24,585 --> 00:04:25,440 in the two years he was at Göttingen. 227 00:04:25,440 --> 00:04:26,883 in the two years he was at Göttingen. 228 00:04:26,883 --> 00:04:27,780 Many of them expanded upon the work of Werner Heisenberg, 229 00:04:27,780 --> 00:04:30,000 Many of them expanded upon the work of Werner Heisenberg, 230 00:04:30,000 --> 00:04:30,570 Many of them expanded upon the work of Werner Heisenberg, 231 00:04:30,570 --> 00:04:31,620 who was just three years older than Oppenheimer. 232 00:04:31,620 --> 00:04:33,001 who was just three years older than Oppenheimer. 233 00:04:33,001 --> 00:04:34,020 The two eventually met in 1927, 234 00:04:34,020 --> 00:04:36,240 The two eventually met in 1927, 235 00:04:36,240 --> 00:04:36,900 the same year Heisenberg published his groundbreaking paper 236 00:04:36,900 --> 00:04:38,699 the same year Heisenberg published his groundbreaking paper 237 00:04:38,699 --> 00:04:39,480 the same year Heisenberg published his groundbreaking paper 238 00:04:39,480 --> 00:04:40,919 on the Quantum uncertainty principle. 239 00:04:40,919 --> 00:04:41,486 on the Quantum uncertainty principle. 240 00:04:41,486 --> 00:04:42,840 By all accounts, 241 00:04:42,840 --> 00:04:43,680 the pair got along well. 242 00:04:43,680 --> 00:04:44,830 the pair got along well. 243 00:04:44,830 --> 00:04:45,180 There was no way to know that just 15 years later, 244 00:04:45,180 --> 00:04:47,100 There was no way to know that just 15 years later, 245 00:04:47,100 --> 00:04:47,730 There was no way to know that just 15 years later, 246 00:04:47,730 --> 00:04:49,919 they would be deadly rivals attempting to build 247 00:04:49,919 --> 00:04:50,850 they would be deadly rivals attempting to build 248 00:04:50,850 --> 00:04:51,900 the first nuclear bomb. 249 00:04:51,900 --> 00:04:52,350 the first nuclear bomb. 250 00:04:52,350 --> 00:04:54,240 Oppenheimer for the USA 251 00:04:54,240 --> 00:04:54,540 and Heisenberg for Nazi Germany. 252 00:04:54,540 --> 00:04:56,193 and Heisenberg for Nazi Germany. 253 00:04:56,193 --> 00:04:57,226 254 00:04:57,226 --> 00:04:57,900 At the time, 255 00:04:57,900 --> 00:04:58,350 At the time, 256 00:04:58,350 --> 00:04:59,100 it was thought that getting significant amounts of energy 257 00:04:59,100 --> 00:05:00,840 it was thought that getting significant amounts of energy 258 00:05:00,840 --> 00:05:01,350 it was thought that getting significant amounts of energy 259 00:05:01,350 --> 00:05:03,600 out of radioactive atoms was impossible. 260 00:05:03,600 --> 00:05:04,950 out of radioactive atoms was impossible. 261 00:05:04,950 --> 00:05:06,479 Ever since the discovery of radioactivity 262 00:05:06,479 --> 00:05:07,230 Ever since the discovery of radioactivity 263 00:05:07,230 --> 00:05:09,000 by Henri Becquerel, Marie Curie, 264 00:05:09,000 --> 00:05:09,060 and Pierre Curie in the late 1890s, 265 00:05:09,060 --> 00:05:11,550 and Pierre Curie in the late 1890s, 266 00:05:11,550 --> 00:05:11,820 it was known that radioactivity was a passive process. 267 00:05:11,820 --> 00:05:13,740 it was known that radioactivity was a passive process. 268 00:05:13,740 --> 00:05:15,210 it was known that radioactivity was a passive process. 269 00:05:15,210 --> 00:05:16,440 Unstable atoms would just decay at random, 270 00:05:16,440 --> 00:05:17,460 Unstable atoms would just decay at random, 271 00:05:17,460 --> 00:05:19,100 unpredictable times, 272 00:05:19,100 --> 00:05:19,650 unpredictable times, 273 00:05:19,650 --> 00:05:21,960 and surely there was no way to control that. 274 00:05:21,960 --> 00:05:23,200 and surely there was no way to control that. 275 00:05:23,200 --> 00:05:23,520 In 1933, Ernest Rutherford, 276 00:05:23,520 --> 00:05:26,070 In 1933, Ernest Rutherford, 277 00:05:26,070 --> 00:05:26,880 Oppenheimer's old boss from Cambridge wrote that, 278 00:05:26,880 --> 00:05:28,927 Oppenheimer's old boss from Cambridge wrote that, 279 00:05:28,927 --> 00:05:29,100 "Anyone who expects a source of power 280 00:05:29,100 --> 00:05:30,720 "Anyone who expects a source of power 281 00:05:30,720 --> 00:05:30,750 "Anyone who expects a source of power 282 00:05:30,750 --> 00:05:32,460 from the transformations of these atoms 283 00:05:32,460 --> 00:05:32,580 from the transformations of these atoms 284 00:05:32,580 --> 00:05:34,290 is talking moonshine." 285 00:05:34,290 --> 00:05:35,039 That same year, 286 00:05:35,039 --> 00:05:35,250 That same year, 287 00:05:35,250 --> 00:05:36,277 Albert Einstein said, 288 00:05:36,277 --> 00:05:37,320 "That there is not the slightest indication 289 00:05:37,320 --> 00:05:38,195 "That there is not the slightest indication 290 00:05:38,195 --> 00:05:39,419 that nuclear energy will ever be obtainable. 291 00:05:39,419 --> 00:05:40,729 that nuclear energy will ever be obtainable. 292 00:05:40,729 --> 00:05:41,639 It would mean that the atom 293 00:05:41,639 --> 00:05:42,480 It would mean that the atom 294 00:05:42,480 --> 00:05:43,199 would have to be shattered at will." 295 00:05:43,199 --> 00:05:45,057 would have to be shattered at will." 296 00:05:45,057 --> 00:05:46,080 297 00:05:46,080 --> 00:05:46,260 298 00:05:46,260 --> 00:05:49,020 So how would you break an atomic nucleus? 299 00:05:49,020 --> 00:05:49,183 So how would you break an atomic nucleus? 300 00:05:49,183 --> 00:05:51,240 Well, you could take a proton 301 00:05:51,240 --> 00:05:51,720 and accelerate it through a large electric field 302 00:05:51,720 --> 00:05:53,280 and accelerate it through a large electric field 303 00:05:53,280 --> 00:05:53,730 and accelerate it through a large electric field 304 00:05:53,730 --> 00:05:56,460 and then smash it into a nucleus. 305 00:05:56,460 --> 00:05:56,580 and then smash it into a nucleus. 306 00:05:56,580 --> 00:05:58,617 This is exactly what John Cockcroft 307 00:05:58,617 --> 00:05:59,220 and Ernest Walton did in 1932. 308 00:05:59,220 --> 00:06:00,930 and Ernest Walton did in 1932. 309 00:06:00,930 --> 00:06:01,860 They accelerated protons into lithium nuclei, 310 00:06:01,860 --> 00:06:04,380 They accelerated protons into lithium nuclei, 311 00:06:04,380 --> 00:06:04,560 They accelerated protons into lithium nuclei, 312 00:06:04,560 --> 00:06:05,526 breaking them apart. 313 00:06:05,526 --> 00:06:06,960 The pair would later win a Nobel Prize for this work, 314 00:06:06,960 --> 00:06:08,982 The pair would later win a Nobel Prize for this work, 315 00:06:08,982 --> 00:06:09,419 but a proton is positively charged, 316 00:06:09,419 --> 00:06:11,790 but a proton is positively charged, 317 00:06:11,790 --> 00:06:12,120 so it's repelled by all nuclei, 318 00:06:12,120 --> 00:06:14,220 so it's repelled by all nuclei, 319 00:06:14,220 --> 00:06:14,880 which are also positively charged. 320 00:06:14,880 --> 00:06:16,650 which are also positively charged. 321 00:06:16,650 --> 00:06:17,340 So to give them a hope of overcoming this barrier, 322 00:06:17,340 --> 00:06:19,080 So to give them a hope of overcoming this barrier, 323 00:06:19,080 --> 00:06:19,350 So to give them a hope of overcoming this barrier, 324 00:06:19,350 --> 00:06:22,680 Cockcroft and Walton had to use 250,000 volts 325 00:06:22,680 --> 00:06:23,610 Cockcroft and Walton had to use 250,000 volts 326 00:06:23,610 --> 00:06:25,440 to accelerate the protons. 327 00:06:25,440 --> 00:06:25,740 Even then, only about one in a billion protons 328 00:06:25,740 --> 00:06:28,440 Even then, only about one in a billion protons 329 00:06:28,440 --> 00:06:28,710 Even then, only about one in a billion protons 330 00:06:28,710 --> 00:06:31,440 actually hit and split a lithium nucleus, 331 00:06:31,440 --> 00:06:31,920 actually hit and split a lithium nucleus, 332 00:06:31,920 --> 00:06:34,500 so this would not be an effective way to get energy. 333 00:06:34,500 --> 00:06:35,403 so this would not be an effective way to get energy. 334 00:06:35,403 --> 00:06:36,180 335 00:06:36,180 --> 00:06:36,240 336 00:06:36,240 --> 00:06:38,133 But there is another way. 337 00:06:38,133 --> 00:06:39,539 338 00:06:39,539 --> 00:06:39,660 339 00:06:39,660 --> 00:06:42,720 In 1932, the neutron was discovered 340 00:06:42,720 --> 00:06:43,319 this subatomic particle that's about 0.1% 341 00:06:43,319 --> 00:06:45,780 this subatomic particle that's about 0.1% 342 00:06:45,780 --> 00:06:46,110 this subatomic particle that's about 0.1% 343 00:06:46,110 --> 00:06:47,640 heavier than a proton, 344 00:06:47,640 --> 00:06:48,419 and it has no electric charge, 345 00:06:48,419 --> 00:06:49,468 and it has no electric charge, 346 00:06:49,468 --> 00:06:51,300 so a neutron would not be repelled from a nucleus. 347 00:06:51,300 --> 00:06:53,760 so a neutron would not be repelled from a nucleus. 348 00:06:53,760 --> 00:06:54,419 And in 1933, 349 00:06:54,419 --> 00:06:55,410 And in 1933, 350 00:06:55,410 --> 00:06:57,900 Leo Szilard was thinking about how you could use neutrons 351 00:06:57,900 --> 00:06:58,950 Leo Szilard was thinking about how you could use neutrons 352 00:06:58,950 --> 00:07:00,720 to split nuclei. 353 00:07:00,720 --> 00:07:00,757 to split nuclei. 354 00:07:00,757 --> 00:07:02,880 "It suddenly occurred to me that if we could find an element 355 00:07:02,880 --> 00:07:03,810 "It suddenly occurred to me that if we could find an element 356 00:07:03,810 --> 00:07:04,800 which is split by neutrons and which would emit two neutrons 357 00:07:04,800 --> 00:07:06,840 which is split by neutrons and which would emit two neutrons 358 00:07:06,840 --> 00:07:07,350 which is split by neutrons and which would emit two neutrons 359 00:07:07,350 --> 00:07:08,819 when it absorbed one neutron, 360 00:07:08,819 --> 00:07:09,120 when it absorbed one neutron, 361 00:07:09,120 --> 00:07:10,979 such an element if assembled sufficiently large mass, 362 00:07:10,979 --> 00:07:12,307 such an element if assembled sufficiently large mass, 363 00:07:12,307 --> 00:07:13,500 could sustain a nuclear chain reaction." 364 00:07:13,500 --> 00:07:16,020 could sustain a nuclear chain reaction." 365 00:07:16,020 --> 00:07:16,110 could sustain a nuclear chain reaction." 366 00:07:16,110 --> 00:07:17,190 But the thing is, 367 00:07:17,190 --> 00:07:18,840 nobody knew if there was an element 368 00:07:18,840 --> 00:07:19,380 nobody knew if there was an element 369 00:07:19,380 --> 00:07:20,280 that had a kind of nucleus that would do that. 370 00:07:20,280 --> 00:07:21,680 that had a kind of nucleus that would do that. 371 00:07:21,680 --> 00:07:23,419 372 00:07:23,419 --> 00:07:24,060 373 00:07:24,060 --> 00:07:26,550 On the 29th of January, 1939, 374 00:07:26,550 --> 00:07:27,720 Louise Alvarez, a promising young physicist, 375 00:07:27,720 --> 00:07:28,950 Louise Alvarez, a promising young physicist, 376 00:07:28,950 --> 00:07:29,580 was getting a haircut while reading 377 00:07:29,580 --> 00:07:30,547 was getting a haircut while reading 378 00:07:30,547 --> 00:07:31,080 "The San Francisco Chronicle", 379 00:07:31,080 --> 00:07:32,123 "The San Francisco Chronicle", 380 00:07:32,123 --> 00:07:33,720 and suddenly he got outta the chair 381 00:07:33,720 --> 00:07:34,530 and suddenly he got outta the chair 382 00:07:34,530 --> 00:07:35,280 halfway through the haircut and ran to Oppenheimer's office. 383 00:07:35,280 --> 00:07:38,000 halfway through the haircut and ran to Oppenheimer's office. 384 00:07:38,000 --> 00:07:38,430 halfway through the haircut and ran to Oppenheimer's office. 385 00:07:38,430 --> 00:07:40,440 Alvarez read an article about how two German chemists, 386 00:07:40,440 --> 00:07:41,430 Alvarez read an article about how two German chemists, 387 00:07:41,430 --> 00:07:42,599 Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann 388 00:07:42,599 --> 00:07:43,440 Otto Hahn and Fritz Strassmann 389 00:07:43,440 --> 00:07:45,300 had successfully split an atom of uranium 390 00:07:45,300 --> 00:07:46,020 had successfully split an atom of uranium 391 00:07:46,020 --> 00:07:47,280 by bombarding it with neutrons. 392 00:07:47,280 --> 00:07:48,326 by bombarding it with neutrons. 393 00:07:48,326 --> 00:07:50,639 Oppenheimer was not impressed. 394 00:07:50,639 --> 00:07:50,977 Oppenheimer was not impressed. 395 00:07:50,977 --> 00:07:52,110 "That's impossible." 396 00:07:52,110 --> 00:07:53,220 He reportedly told the Young Alvarez 397 00:07:53,220 --> 00:07:54,270 He reportedly told the Young Alvarez 398 00:07:54,270 --> 00:07:55,020 proceeding to mathematically prove on his blackboard 399 00:07:55,020 --> 00:07:56,759 proceeding to mathematically prove on his blackboard 400 00:07:56,759 --> 00:07:56,820 proceeding to mathematically prove on his blackboard 401 00:07:56,820 --> 00:07:59,193 why fission could never be achieved. 402 00:07:59,193 --> 00:08:00,660 403 00:08:00,660 --> 00:08:00,840 404 00:08:00,840 --> 00:08:02,100 But the next day, 405 00:08:02,100 --> 00:08:03,660 Alvarez had repeated the experiment 406 00:08:03,660 --> 00:08:04,470 Alvarez had repeated the experiment 407 00:08:04,470 --> 00:08:05,940 and invited Oppenheimer to see it. 408 00:08:05,940 --> 00:08:06,704 and invited Oppenheimer to see it. 409 00:08:06,704 --> 00:08:08,437 Alvarez later recalled that, 410 00:08:08,437 --> 00:08:09,000 "In less than 15 minutes, 411 00:08:09,000 --> 00:08:09,887 "In less than 15 minutes, 412 00:08:09,887 --> 00:08:11,400 he not only agreed that the reaction was authentic, 413 00:08:11,400 --> 00:08:12,960 he not only agreed that the reaction was authentic, 414 00:08:12,960 --> 00:08:13,560 but also speculated that in the process, 415 00:08:13,560 --> 00:08:14,978 but also speculated that in the process, 416 00:08:14,978 --> 00:08:15,660 extra neutrons would boil off. 417 00:08:15,660 --> 00:08:17,280 extra neutrons would boil off. 418 00:08:17,280 --> 00:08:17,759 That could be used to split more uranium atoms 419 00:08:17,759 --> 00:08:19,710 That could be used to split more uranium atoms 420 00:08:19,710 --> 00:08:20,039 and thereby generate power or make bombs." 421 00:08:20,039 --> 00:08:23,292 and thereby generate power or make bombs." 422 00:08:23,292 --> 00:08:23,580 When a single atom of uranium-235 splits apart, 423 00:08:23,580 --> 00:08:26,639 When a single atom of uranium-235 splits apart, 424 00:08:26,639 --> 00:08:27,180 When a single atom of uranium-235 splits apart, 425 00:08:27,180 --> 00:08:28,979 it loses a little bit of mass, 426 00:08:28,979 --> 00:08:29,130 it loses a little bit of mass, 427 00:08:29,130 --> 00:08:31,020 which is released as energy. 428 00:08:31,020 --> 00:08:31,560 Following Einstein's mass energy equivalence. 429 00:08:31,560 --> 00:08:33,990 Following Einstein's mass energy equivalence. 430 00:08:33,990 --> 00:08:34,260 That is a tiny amount of energy, 431 00:08:34,260 --> 00:08:36,480 That is a tiny amount of energy, 432 00:08:36,480 --> 00:08:37,440 about 20 times less than the amount required 433 00:08:37,440 --> 00:08:39,330 about 20 times less than the amount required 434 00:08:39,330 --> 00:08:39,599 to raise a grain of sand, 435 00:08:39,599 --> 00:08:40,919 to raise a grain of sand, 436 00:08:40,919 --> 00:08:42,120 the thickness of a piece of paper. 437 00:08:42,120 --> 00:08:43,440 the thickness of a piece of paper. 438 00:08:43,440 --> 00:08:43,529 the thickness of a piece of paper. 439 00:08:43,529 --> 00:08:43,530 440 00:08:43,530 --> 00:08:45,510 But atoms are also tiny. 441 00:08:45,510 --> 00:08:46,020 In a one kilogram lump of uranium, 442 00:08:46,020 --> 00:08:47,550 In a one kilogram lump of uranium, 443 00:08:47,550 --> 00:08:48,420 there are about a trillion, trillion atoms, 444 00:08:48,420 --> 00:08:50,730 there are about a trillion, trillion atoms, 445 00:08:50,730 --> 00:08:51,600 so the energy quickly adds up. 446 00:08:51,600 --> 00:08:53,610 so the energy quickly adds up. 447 00:08:53,610 --> 00:08:55,260 Soon, almost everyone was convinced in August of 1939, 448 00:08:55,260 --> 00:08:57,930 Soon, almost everyone was convinced in August of 1939, 449 00:08:57,930 --> 00:08:58,800 Einstein, who just six years earlier 450 00:08:58,800 --> 00:09:00,030 Einstein, who just six years earlier 451 00:09:00,030 --> 00:09:00,600 believed that nuclear bombs were impossible, 452 00:09:00,600 --> 00:09:02,220 believed that nuclear bombs were impossible, 453 00:09:02,220 --> 00:09:02,940 signed his name to a letter 454 00:09:02,940 --> 00:09:03,780 signed his name to a letter 455 00:09:03,780 --> 00:09:04,560 addressed to President Franklin Roosevelt. 456 00:09:04,560 --> 00:09:05,843 addressed to President Franklin Roosevelt. 457 00:09:05,843 --> 00:09:07,200 The letter actually written by Szilard warned Roosevelt 458 00:09:07,200 --> 00:09:09,510 The letter actually written by Szilard warned Roosevelt 459 00:09:09,510 --> 00:09:09,720 of the possibility of nuclear weapons. 460 00:09:09,720 --> 00:09:11,790 of the possibility of nuclear weapons. 461 00:09:11,790 --> 00:09:12,000 It also pointed out that Germany had access to uranium 462 00:09:12,000 --> 00:09:13,560 It also pointed out that Germany had access to uranium 463 00:09:13,560 --> 00:09:14,400 It also pointed out that Germany had access to uranium 464 00:09:14,400 --> 00:09:15,360 from the mines in Czechoslovakia, 465 00:09:15,360 --> 00:09:16,470 from the mines in Czechoslovakia, 466 00:09:16,470 --> 00:09:17,880 which was recently taken over by the Nazis. 467 00:09:17,880 --> 00:09:19,530 which was recently taken over by the Nazis. 468 00:09:19,530 --> 00:09:21,060 Roosevelt began an informal uranium committee 469 00:09:21,060 --> 00:09:22,650 Roosevelt began an informal uranium committee 470 00:09:22,650 --> 00:09:23,279 to discuss this topic, 471 00:09:23,279 --> 00:09:24,390 to discuss this topic, 472 00:09:24,390 --> 00:09:25,800 but then for two years, nothing happened. 473 00:09:25,800 --> 00:09:27,183 but then for two years, nothing happened. 474 00:09:27,183 --> 00:09:28,320 475 00:09:28,320 --> 00:09:28,680 476 00:09:28,680 --> 00:09:31,860 In 1941, Roosevelt upgraded the informal 477 00:09:31,860 --> 00:09:31,980 uranium committee to the S-1 committee, 478 00:09:31,980 --> 00:09:34,260 uranium committee to the S-1 committee, 479 00:09:34,260 --> 00:09:34,410 uranium committee to the S-1 committee, 480 00:09:34,410 --> 00:09:36,420 which would report directly to the White House. 481 00:09:36,420 --> 00:09:37,050 which would report directly to the White House. 482 00:09:37,050 --> 00:09:39,480 The explicit goal was to develop an atomic bomb, 483 00:09:39,480 --> 00:09:40,592 The explicit goal was to develop an atomic bomb, 484 00:09:40,592 --> 00:09:42,507 and in May, 1942, 485 00:09:42,507 --> 00:09:42,680 Oppenheimer was hired onto the committee 486 00:09:42,680 --> 00:09:45,150 Oppenheimer was hired onto the committee 487 00:09:45,150 --> 00:09:45,180 to be the coordinator of rapid rupture. 488 00:09:45,180 --> 00:09:48,724 to be the coordinator of rapid rupture. 489 00:09:48,724 --> 00:09:49,019 So why was he selected? 490 00:09:49,019 --> 00:09:51,682 So why was he selected? 491 00:09:51,682 --> 00:09:53,660 (dramatic music) 492 00:09:53,660 --> 00:09:54,600 (dramatic music) 493 00:09:54,600 --> 00:09:54,720 (dramatic music) 494 00:09:54,720 --> 00:09:56,234 Well, after completing his PhD, 495 00:09:56,234 --> 00:09:56,459 Oppenheimer became a physics professor, 496 00:09:56,459 --> 00:09:58,800 Oppenheimer became a physics professor, 497 00:09:58,800 --> 00:09:58,890 Oppenheimer became a physics professor, 498 00:09:58,890 --> 00:10:01,276 first at UC Berkeley, and then at Caltech, 499 00:10:01,276 --> 00:10:01,440 the brilliance he had shown 500 00:10:01,440 --> 00:10:03,060 the brilliance he had shown 501 00:10:03,060 --> 00:10:03,540 under Max Born's tutelage didn't fade. 502 00:10:03,540 --> 00:10:05,640 under Max Born's tutelage didn't fade. 503 00:10:05,640 --> 00:10:06,300 Indeed, it blossomed into a remarkable 504 00:10:06,300 --> 00:10:07,559 Indeed, it blossomed into a remarkable 505 00:10:07,559 --> 00:10:09,180 but strange physics career. 506 00:10:09,180 --> 00:10:10,740 but strange physics career. 507 00:10:10,740 --> 00:10:11,880 In the 15 years after finishing his PhD, 508 00:10:11,880 --> 00:10:13,530 In the 15 years after finishing his PhD, 509 00:10:13,530 --> 00:10:14,339 Oppenheimer made important contributions to everything from 510 00:10:14,339 --> 00:10:15,779 Oppenheimer made important contributions to everything from 511 00:10:15,779 --> 00:10:16,230 Oppenheimer made important contributions to everything from 512 00:10:16,230 --> 00:10:18,120 nuclear physics to quantum field theory, 513 00:10:18,120 --> 00:10:18,750 nuclear physics to quantum field theory, 514 00:10:18,750 --> 00:10:20,520 and even astrophysics. 515 00:10:20,520 --> 00:10:21,120 He had a number of Nobel Prize winning ideas. 516 00:10:21,120 --> 00:10:22,720 He had a number of Nobel Prize winning ideas. 517 00:10:22,720 --> 00:10:23,339 One of his students, Willis Lamb, 518 00:10:23,339 --> 00:10:24,540 One of his students, Willis Lamb, 519 00:10:24,540 --> 00:10:25,260 became a Nobel laureate, 520 00:10:25,260 --> 00:10:26,430 became a Nobel laureate, 521 00:10:26,430 --> 00:10:27,600 but Oppenheimer himself was nominated three times, 522 00:10:27,600 --> 00:10:29,003 but Oppenheimer himself was nominated three times, 523 00:10:29,003 --> 00:10:30,180 but never actually won the Nobel Prize. 524 00:10:30,180 --> 00:10:32,463 but never actually won the Nobel Prize. 525 00:10:32,463 --> 00:10:33,240 526 00:10:33,240 --> 00:10:33,420 527 00:10:33,420 --> 00:10:34,860 When asked why he thought that Oppenheimer 528 00:10:34,860 --> 00:10:35,400 When asked why he thought that Oppenheimer 529 00:10:35,400 --> 00:10:36,906 never won the Nobel Prize, 530 00:10:36,906 --> 00:10:36,959 Murray Gell-Mann said that, 531 00:10:36,959 --> 00:10:38,917 Murray Gell-Mann said that, 532 00:10:38,917 --> 00:10:39,959 "He didn't have Sitzfleisch" 533 00:10:39,959 --> 00:10:41,160 "He didn't have Sitzfleisch" 534 00:10:41,160 --> 00:10:42,480 A German word that translates to sitting flesh. 535 00:10:42,480 --> 00:10:44,340 A German word that translates to sitting flesh. 536 00:10:44,340 --> 00:10:45,779 The ability to sit down in a chair for a long time 537 00:10:45,779 --> 00:10:47,400 The ability to sit down in a chair for a long time 538 00:10:47,400 --> 00:10:47,820 and do the hard work. 539 00:10:47,820 --> 00:10:48,727 and do the hard work. 540 00:10:48,727 --> 00:10:51,000 "He never wrote a long paper or did a long calculation. 541 00:10:51,000 --> 00:10:52,590 "He never wrote a long paper or did a long calculation. 542 00:10:52,590 --> 00:10:53,339 He didn't have the patience for that." 543 00:10:53,339 --> 00:10:54,713 He didn't have the patience for that." 544 00:10:54,713 --> 00:10:55,019 Wolfgang Pauli also said, 545 00:10:55,019 --> 00:10:56,416 Wolfgang Pauli also said, 546 00:10:56,416 --> 00:10:58,019 "His ideas are very good, 547 00:10:58,019 --> 00:10:58,470 "His ideas are very good, 548 00:10:58,470 --> 00:11:00,120 but his calculations are always wrong." 549 00:11:00,120 --> 00:11:00,927 but his calculations are always wrong." 550 00:11:00,927 --> 00:11:02,660 551 00:11:03,600 --> 00:11:04,320 But Oppenheimer was amazing with people. 552 00:11:04,320 --> 00:11:06,660 But Oppenheimer was amazing with people. 553 00:11:06,660 --> 00:11:07,380 He was a natural and charismatic leader, 554 00:11:07,380 --> 00:11:09,030 He was a natural and charismatic leader, 555 00:11:09,030 --> 00:11:09,720 and this combination, 556 00:11:09,720 --> 00:11:10,320 and this combination, 557 00:11:10,320 --> 00:11:11,880 his charisma and his ability to generate great ideas 558 00:11:11,880 --> 00:11:13,214 his charisma and his ability to generate great ideas 559 00:11:13,214 --> 00:11:14,279 would serve him well in the next phase of his life. 560 00:11:14,279 --> 00:11:16,297 would serve him well in the next phase of his life. 561 00:11:16,297 --> 00:11:16,840 (upbeat music) 562 00:11:16,840 --> 00:11:18,880 (upbeat music) 563 00:11:18,880 --> 00:11:21,360 564 00:11:21,360 --> 00:11:21,510 565 00:11:21,510 --> 00:11:23,730 On the 18th of September, 1942, 566 00:11:23,730 --> 00:11:24,060 general Leslie Groves was put in charge 567 00:11:24,060 --> 00:11:26,070 general Leslie Groves was put in charge 568 00:11:26,070 --> 00:11:26,399 of the Manhattan Project. 569 00:11:26,399 --> 00:11:27,690 of the Manhattan Project. 570 00:11:27,690 --> 00:11:29,700 - I was responsible for the development of the atomic bomb. 571 00:11:29,700 --> 00:11:31,920 - I was responsible for the development of the atomic bomb. 572 00:11:31,920 --> 00:11:32,279 - [Derek] On day one, he ordered 1200 tons of uranium ore. 573 00:11:32,279 --> 00:11:35,519 - [Derek] On day one, he ordered 1200 tons of uranium ore. 574 00:11:35,519 --> 00:11:36,011 - [Derek] On day one, he ordered 1200 tons of uranium ore. 575 00:11:36,011 --> 00:11:37,230 The next day, 576 00:11:37,230 --> 00:11:38,339 he ordered to buy the Oak Ridge site 577 00:11:38,339 --> 00:11:39,270 he ordered to buy the Oak Ridge site 578 00:11:39,270 --> 00:11:40,500 where the ore would be refined. 579 00:11:40,500 --> 00:11:41,430 where the ore would be refined. 580 00:11:41,430 --> 00:11:42,899 The next month in a surprising move, 581 00:11:42,899 --> 00:11:43,170 The next month in a surprising move, 582 00:11:43,170 --> 00:11:45,120 he chose Oppenheimer to be the science director 583 00:11:45,120 --> 00:11:45,750 he chose Oppenheimer to be the science director 584 00:11:45,750 --> 00:11:46,680 of the soon to be established Los Alamos laboratory. 585 00:11:46,680 --> 00:11:49,160 of the soon to be established Los Alamos laboratory. 586 00:11:49,160 --> 00:11:49,470 of the soon to be established Los Alamos laboratory. 587 00:11:49,470 --> 00:11:51,300 Oppenheimer had just been selected to be the chief architect 588 00:11:51,300 --> 00:11:52,350 Oppenheimer had just been selected to be the chief architect 589 00:11:52,350 --> 00:11:53,410 of the atomic bomb. 590 00:11:53,410 --> 00:11:53,433 of the atomic bomb. 591 00:11:53,433 --> 00:11:55,680 592 00:11:55,680 --> 00:11:55,830 593 00:11:55,830 --> 00:11:58,385 The military establishment had concerns. 594 00:11:58,385 --> 00:11:58,579 Oppenheimer did not have a Nobel Prize, 595 00:11:58,579 --> 00:12:01,019 Oppenheimer did not have a Nobel Prize, 596 00:12:01,019 --> 00:12:01,080 Oppenheimer did not have a Nobel Prize, 597 00:12:01,080 --> 00:12:03,000 so would the scientists hired for the project, 598 00:12:03,000 --> 00:12:03,180 so would the scientists hired for the project, 599 00:12:03,180 --> 00:12:04,290 respect his opinion, 600 00:12:04,290 --> 00:12:04,920 and follow his leadership? 601 00:12:04,920 --> 00:12:06,120 and follow his leadership? 602 00:12:06,120 --> 00:12:07,500 Oppenheimer also had no prior administrative experience 603 00:12:07,500 --> 00:12:09,090 Oppenheimer also had no prior administrative experience 604 00:12:09,090 --> 00:12:09,839 over a large project like this. 605 00:12:09,839 --> 00:12:11,550 over a large project like this. 606 00:12:11,550 --> 00:12:12,420 Furthermore, he was a theoretical physicist, 607 00:12:12,420 --> 00:12:14,190 Furthermore, he was a theoretical physicist, 608 00:12:14,190 --> 00:12:14,579 who according to Isidor Rabi, 609 00:12:14,579 --> 00:12:16,237 who according to Isidor Rabi, 610 00:12:16,237 --> 00:12:17,339 "Was a very impractical fellow. 611 00:12:17,339 --> 00:12:18,660 "Was a very impractical fellow. 612 00:12:18,660 --> 00:12:19,440 He didn't know anything about equipment." 613 00:12:19,440 --> 00:12:21,450 He didn't know anything about equipment." 614 00:12:21,450 --> 00:12:22,380 And then there was the problem 615 00:12:22,380 --> 00:12:22,800 And then there was the problem 616 00:12:22,800 --> 00:12:23,760 of Oppenheimer's political stance. 617 00:12:23,760 --> 00:12:24,720 of Oppenheimer's political stance. 618 00:12:24,720 --> 00:12:25,980 He had links to the Communist Party, 619 00:12:25,980 --> 00:12:26,970 He had links to the Communist Party, 620 00:12:26,970 --> 00:12:27,899 including his wife, Catherine, 621 00:12:27,899 --> 00:12:28,770 including his wife, Catherine, 622 00:12:28,770 --> 00:12:31,440 who was a member of that party. 623 00:12:31,440 --> 00:12:31,560 who was a member of that party. 624 00:12:31,560 --> 00:12:34,170 But Groves was impressed by Oppenheimer. 625 00:12:34,170 --> 00:12:34,200 He valued his overwhelming ambition. 626 00:12:34,200 --> 00:12:36,750 He valued his overwhelming ambition. 627 00:12:36,750 --> 00:12:37,079 He also knew that Oppenheimer's ability to understand 628 00:12:37,079 --> 00:12:38,579 He also knew that Oppenheimer's ability to understand 629 00:12:38,579 --> 00:12:39,000 He also knew that Oppenheimer's ability to understand 630 00:12:39,000 --> 00:12:40,260 problems not just in physics, 631 00:12:40,260 --> 00:12:40,530 problems not just in physics, 632 00:12:40,530 --> 00:12:41,970 but chemistry, engineering, 633 00:12:41,970 --> 00:12:42,779 and metallurgy would be invaluable. 634 00:12:42,779 --> 00:12:44,580 and metallurgy would be invaluable. 635 00:12:44,580 --> 00:12:45,660 Groves thought that Oppenheimer was a "Real genius." 636 00:12:45,660 --> 00:12:48,270 Groves thought that Oppenheimer was a "Real genius." 637 00:12:48,270 --> 00:12:48,779 Saying that why Oppenheimer knows about everything. 638 00:12:48,779 --> 00:12:51,060 Saying that why Oppenheimer knows about everything. 639 00:12:51,060 --> 00:12:51,877 Saying that why Oppenheimer knows about everything. 640 00:12:51,877 --> 00:12:52,860 "He can talk to you about anything you bring up. 641 00:12:52,860 --> 00:12:54,000 "He can talk to you about anything you bring up. 642 00:12:54,000 --> 00:12:55,019 Well, not exactly. 643 00:12:55,019 --> 00:12:55,050 Well, not exactly. 644 00:12:55,050 --> 00:12:57,057 He doesn't know anything about sports." 645 00:12:57,057 --> 00:12:57,720 646 00:12:57,720 --> 00:12:57,900 647 00:12:57,900 --> 00:12:59,760 The two men couldn't have been more different. 648 00:12:59,760 --> 00:13:00,270 The two men couldn't have been more different. 649 00:13:00,270 --> 00:13:01,980 Oppenheimer weighed half as much as Groves 650 00:13:01,980 --> 00:13:02,880 Oppenheimer weighed half as much as Groves 651 00:13:02,880 --> 00:13:03,959 despite both of them being nearly six feet tall. 652 00:13:03,959 --> 00:13:05,647 despite both of them being nearly six feet tall. 653 00:13:05,647 --> 00:13:06,839 Ideologically, Oppenheimer was a communist. 654 00:13:06,839 --> 00:13:08,820 Ideologically, Oppenheimer was a communist. 655 00:13:08,820 --> 00:13:09,660 Groves, a staunch conservative, 656 00:13:09,660 --> 00:13:11,040 Groves, a staunch conservative, 657 00:13:11,040 --> 00:13:11,160 Groves, a staunch conservative, 658 00:13:11,160 --> 00:13:12,779 but Groves was convinced that Oppenheimer 659 00:13:12,779 --> 00:13:13,260 but Groves was convinced that Oppenheimer 660 00:13:13,260 --> 00:13:14,579 would be the person that would build the atomic bomb 661 00:13:14,579 --> 00:13:15,600 would be the person that would build the atomic bomb 662 00:13:15,600 --> 00:13:16,139 before the Nazis, 663 00:13:16,139 --> 00:13:16,860 before the Nazis, 664 00:13:16,860 --> 00:13:19,079 and that was all that mattered. 665 00:13:19,079 --> 00:13:19,263 and that was all that mattered. 666 00:13:19,263 --> 00:13:21,120 Isador Rabi later commented that, 667 00:13:21,120 --> 00:13:21,240 hiring Oppenheimer for this role was 668 00:13:21,240 --> 00:13:23,080 hiring Oppenheimer for this role was 669 00:13:23,080 --> 00:13:23,459 670 00:13:23,459 --> 00:13:24,402 671 00:13:24,402 --> 00:13:25,079 "A real stroke of genius 672 00:13:25,079 --> 00:13:25,235 "A real stroke of genius 673 00:13:25,235 --> 00:13:26,190 on the part of General Groves, 674 00:13:26,190 --> 00:13:27,120 who was not generally considered to be a genius." 675 00:13:27,120 --> 00:13:28,857 who was not generally considered to be a genius." 676 00:13:28,857 --> 00:13:29,459 677 00:13:29,459 --> 00:13:29,700 678 00:13:29,700 --> 00:13:32,100 The Manhattan Project needed a location. 679 00:13:32,100 --> 00:13:32,610 The Manhattan Project needed a location. 680 00:13:32,610 --> 00:13:34,320 Somewhere isolated to keep the project secret 681 00:13:34,320 --> 00:13:34,927 Somewhere isolated to keep the project secret 682 00:13:34,927 --> 00:13:36,845 safe from enemy attack. 683 00:13:36,845 --> 00:13:37,740 And while no one wanted to admit it, 684 00:13:37,740 --> 00:13:38,910 And while no one wanted to admit it, 685 00:13:38,910 --> 00:13:39,480 somewhere that was sparsely populated, 686 00:13:39,480 --> 00:13:40,830 somewhere that was sparsely populated, 687 00:13:40,830 --> 00:13:41,519 just in case there was an accident, 688 00:13:41,519 --> 00:13:43,233 just in case there was an accident, 689 00:13:43,233 --> 00:13:44,160 690 00:13:44,160 --> 00:13:44,310 691 00:13:44,310 --> 00:13:46,620 Oppenheimer proposed Los Alamos, New Mexico. 692 00:13:46,620 --> 00:13:47,310 Oppenheimer proposed Los Alamos, New Mexico. 693 00:13:47,310 --> 00:13:48,779 He had fallen in love with the harsh desert in the mountains 694 00:13:48,779 --> 00:13:49,890 He had fallen in love with the harsh desert in the mountains 695 00:13:49,890 --> 00:13:50,339 of New Mexico when he was in his twenties. 696 00:13:50,339 --> 00:13:51,758 of New Mexico when he was in his twenties. 697 00:13:51,758 --> 00:13:53,100 In 1929, Oppenheimer wrote to a friend. 698 00:13:53,100 --> 00:13:54,420 In 1929, Oppenheimer wrote to a friend. 699 00:13:54,420 --> 00:13:55,440 "My two great loves are physics and New Mexico. 700 00:13:55,440 --> 00:13:57,360 "My two great loves are physics and New Mexico. 701 00:13:57,360 --> 00:13:57,900 "My two great loves are physics and New Mexico. 702 00:13:57,900 --> 00:14:00,480 It's a pity they can't be combined." 703 00:14:00,480 --> 00:14:00,600 It's a pity they can't be combined." 704 00:14:00,600 --> 00:14:02,160 But Oppenheimer had severely underestimated the logistical 705 00:14:02,160 --> 00:14:03,480 But Oppenheimer had severely underestimated the logistical 706 00:14:03,480 --> 00:14:03,899 challenge ahead. 707 00:14:03,899 --> 00:14:04,648 challenge ahead. 708 00:14:04,648 --> 00:14:04,690 (gentle music) 709 00:14:04,690 --> 00:14:07,779 (gentle music) 710 00:14:07,779 --> 00:14:07,980 In 1943, Oppenheimer estimated 711 00:14:07,980 --> 00:14:10,440 In 1943, Oppenheimer estimated 712 00:14:10,440 --> 00:14:10,920 that he'd need about six scientists 713 00:14:10,920 --> 00:14:13,118 that he'd need about six scientists 714 00:14:13,118 --> 00:14:14,519 supported by a handful of engineers 715 00:14:14,519 --> 00:14:15,300 supported by a handful of engineers 716 00:14:15,300 --> 00:14:16,260 and technicians to make a bomb. 717 00:14:16,260 --> 00:14:16,863 and technicians to make a bomb. 718 00:14:16,863 --> 00:14:18,740 719 00:14:20,160 --> 00:14:20,220 720 00:14:20,220 --> 00:14:24,060 He was off by two orders of magnitude. 721 00:14:24,060 --> 00:14:24,260 764 scientists would end up 722 00:14:24,260 --> 00:14:26,160 764 scientists would end up 723 00:14:26,160 --> 00:14:26,700 working for the Manhattan Project. 724 00:14:26,700 --> 00:14:27,810 working for the Manhattan Project. 725 00:14:27,810 --> 00:14:29,279 302 of which would work at the Los Alamos site. 726 00:14:29,279 --> 00:14:31,023 302 of which would work at the Los Alamos site. 727 00:14:31,023 --> 00:14:32,839 728 00:14:33,120 --> 00:14:33,270 729 00:14:33,270 --> 00:14:36,300 Over 600,000 people in total were involved 730 00:14:36,300 --> 00:14:36,870 Over 600,000 people in total were involved 731 00:14:36,870 --> 00:14:38,160 with the making of the atomic bomb. 732 00:14:38,160 --> 00:14:38,620 with the making of the atomic bomb. 733 00:14:38,620 --> 00:14:40,019 734 00:14:40,019 --> 00:14:40,110 735 00:14:40,110 --> 00:14:41,940 By this point, making the atom bomb didn't seem impossible. 736 00:14:41,940 --> 00:14:43,440 By this point, making the atom bomb didn't seem impossible. 737 00:14:43,440 --> 00:14:45,183 It seemed likely. 738 00:14:45,183 --> 00:14:47,000 739 00:14:47,639 --> 00:14:47,760 740 00:14:47,760 --> 00:14:49,890 On the 2nd of December, 1942, 741 00:14:49,890 --> 00:14:50,639 a team of physicists at the University of Chicago 742 00:14:50,639 --> 00:14:52,079 a team of physicists at the University of Chicago 743 00:14:52,079 --> 00:14:52,350 a team of physicists at the University of Chicago 744 00:14:52,350 --> 00:14:55,230 led by Enrico Fermi created the world's 745 00:14:55,230 --> 00:14:55,380 first artificial nuclear reactor Pile-1. 746 00:14:55,380 --> 00:14:58,019 first artificial nuclear reactor Pile-1. 747 00:14:58,019 --> 00:14:58,680 first artificial nuclear reactor Pile-1. 748 00:14:58,680 --> 00:15:01,199 It consisted of 45 tons of uranium and uranium oxide 749 00:15:01,199 --> 00:15:02,580 It consisted of 45 tons of uranium and uranium oxide 750 00:15:02,580 --> 00:15:04,260 and 330 tons of graphite blocks. 751 00:15:04,260 --> 00:15:05,425 and 330 tons of graphite blocks. 752 00:15:05,425 --> 00:15:06,870 Horrifyingly enough. 753 00:15:06,870 --> 00:15:07,260 It was located under the stands of the football field. 754 00:15:07,260 --> 00:15:09,720 It was located under the stands of the football field. 755 00:15:09,720 --> 00:15:10,740 It was located under the stands of the football field. 756 00:15:10,740 --> 00:15:13,079 It generated about half a watt of power, 757 00:15:13,079 --> 00:15:14,699 It generated about half a watt of power, 758 00:15:14,699 --> 00:15:14,820 It generated about half a watt of power, 759 00:15:14,820 --> 00:15:16,560 and if you can make a nuclear power plant, 760 00:15:16,560 --> 00:15:16,785 and if you can make a nuclear power plant, 761 00:15:16,785 --> 00:15:18,630 you can make a bomb. 762 00:15:18,630 --> 00:15:19,380 The only real difference between the two 763 00:15:19,380 --> 00:15:20,460 The only real difference between the two 764 00:15:20,460 --> 00:15:21,060 is how many neutrons hit the next atom, 765 00:15:21,060 --> 00:15:22,500 is how many neutrons hit the next atom, 766 00:15:22,500 --> 00:15:23,279 causing it to split and release more neutrons. 767 00:15:23,279 --> 00:15:25,590 causing it to split and release more neutrons. 768 00:15:25,590 --> 00:15:26,160 If on average that number is one, 769 00:15:26,160 --> 00:15:27,690 If on average that number is one, 770 00:15:27,690 --> 00:15:28,199 there will be a stable self-sustaining chain reaction, 771 00:15:28,199 --> 00:15:30,300 there will be a stable self-sustaining chain reaction, 772 00:15:30,300 --> 00:15:30,570 there will be a stable self-sustaining chain reaction, 773 00:15:30,570 --> 00:15:31,648 but it won't grow. 774 00:15:31,648 --> 00:15:33,240 If it's less than one, 775 00:15:33,240 --> 00:15:33,390 If it's less than one, 776 00:15:33,390 --> 00:15:35,340 the reaction will die down, 777 00:15:35,340 --> 00:15:35,820 and if it's more than one, 778 00:15:35,820 --> 00:15:36,450 and if it's more than one, 779 00:15:36,450 --> 00:15:37,760 the reaction will grow. 780 00:15:37,760 --> 00:15:37,997 the reaction will grow. 781 00:15:37,997 --> 00:15:40,440 This is known as the multiplication factor, K. 782 00:15:40,440 --> 00:15:42,090 This is known as the multiplication factor, K. 783 00:15:42,090 --> 00:15:43,860 Nuclear reactions are similar to pandemics in this way. 784 00:15:43,860 --> 00:15:45,453 Nuclear reactions are similar to pandemics in this way. 785 00:15:45,453 --> 00:15:47,240 786 00:15:48,180 --> 00:15:48,210 787 00:15:48,210 --> 00:15:50,160 The simplest way to make a nuclear bomb 788 00:15:50,160 --> 00:15:50,250 The simplest way to make a nuclear bomb 789 00:15:50,250 --> 00:15:52,740 is to get enough fissile material close together 790 00:15:52,740 --> 00:15:53,310 is to get enough fissile material close together 791 00:15:53,310 --> 00:15:54,959 that it creates a runaway chain reaction. 792 00:15:54,959 --> 00:15:55,980 that it creates a runaway chain reaction. 793 00:15:55,980 --> 00:15:57,720 That amount is known as the critical mass. 794 00:15:57,720 --> 00:15:58,770 That amount is known as the critical mass. 795 00:15:58,770 --> 00:16:00,120 With uranium-235, 796 00:16:00,120 --> 00:16:00,600 you need about 52 kilograms. 797 00:16:00,600 --> 00:16:02,700 you need about 52 kilograms. 798 00:16:02,700 --> 00:16:04,139 Forming a sphere with a diameter of 17 centimeters. 799 00:16:04,139 --> 00:16:06,230 Forming a sphere with a diameter of 17 centimeters. 800 00:16:06,230 --> 00:16:06,600 If you use plutonium-239, 801 00:16:06,600 --> 00:16:08,700 If you use plutonium-239, 802 00:16:08,700 --> 00:16:09,180 the critical mass is much smaller, 803 00:16:09,180 --> 00:16:10,260 the critical mass is much smaller, 804 00:16:10,260 --> 00:16:11,220 only around 10 kilograms, 805 00:16:11,220 --> 00:16:12,120 only around 10 kilograms, 806 00:16:12,120 --> 00:16:13,380 which would create a sphere only 10 centimeters wide. 807 00:16:13,380 --> 00:16:16,139 which would create a sphere only 10 centimeters wide. 808 00:16:16,139 --> 00:16:16,170 which would create a sphere only 10 centimeters wide. 809 00:16:16,170 --> 00:16:17,370 For the first few years, 810 00:16:17,370 --> 00:16:18,180 the scientists worked on a bomb with a gun type design. 811 00:16:18,180 --> 00:16:20,600 the scientists worked on a bomb with a gun type design. 812 00:16:20,600 --> 00:16:20,790 the scientists worked on a bomb with a gun type design. 813 00:16:20,790 --> 00:16:22,590 Inside a gun type bomb, 814 00:16:22,590 --> 00:16:23,339 you have two slabs of uranium-235, 815 00:16:23,339 --> 00:16:24,800 you have two slabs of uranium-235, 816 00:16:24,800 --> 00:16:25,920 both of which are below the critical mass. 817 00:16:25,920 --> 00:16:27,600 both of which are below the critical mass. 818 00:16:27,600 --> 00:16:27,720 both of which are below the critical mass. 819 00:16:27,720 --> 00:16:30,300 Then using a conventional explosive like cordite, 820 00:16:30,300 --> 00:16:31,320 Then using a conventional explosive like cordite, 821 00:16:31,320 --> 00:16:34,139 you rapidly fire one towards the other. 822 00:16:34,139 --> 00:16:34,620 you rapidly fire one towards the other. 823 00:16:34,620 --> 00:16:36,660 So the combined mass is higher than the critical mass. 824 00:16:36,660 --> 00:16:38,279 So the combined mass is higher than the critical mass. 825 00:16:38,279 --> 00:16:38,430 So the combined mass is higher than the critical mass. 826 00:16:38,430 --> 00:16:40,440 When the uranium bullet is about 25 centimeters away, 827 00:16:40,440 --> 00:16:41,850 When the uranium bullet is about 25 centimeters away, 828 00:16:41,850 --> 00:16:42,839 the nuclear chain reaction begins 829 00:16:42,839 --> 00:16:44,280 the nuclear chain reaction begins 830 00:16:44,280 --> 00:16:46,199 resulting in an atomic explosion. 831 00:16:46,199 --> 00:16:47,519 resulting in an atomic explosion. 832 00:16:47,519 --> 00:16:47,610 resulting in an atomic explosion. 833 00:16:47,610 --> 00:16:49,290 Despite the simple design, 834 00:16:49,290 --> 00:16:50,639 it is not very efficient. 835 00:16:50,639 --> 00:16:51,180 it is not very efficient. 836 00:16:51,180 --> 00:16:52,560 Only a small percentage of the uranium undergoes fission, 837 00:16:52,560 --> 00:16:53,818 Only a small percentage of the uranium undergoes fission, 838 00:16:53,818 --> 00:16:54,839 so the total yield of the bomb is much smaller. 839 00:16:54,839 --> 00:16:57,210 so the total yield of the bomb is much smaller. 840 00:16:57,210 --> 00:16:57,600 You also run into some unexpected problems, 841 00:16:57,600 --> 00:17:00,000 You also run into some unexpected problems, 842 00:17:00,000 --> 00:17:00,090 You also run into some unexpected problems, 843 00:17:00,090 --> 00:17:01,920 like how do you make sure the uranium 844 00:17:01,920 --> 00:17:02,040 slides smoothly through the barrel? 845 00:17:02,040 --> 00:17:04,185 slides smoothly through the barrel? 846 00:17:04,185 --> 00:17:05,099 Well, you use oil to lubricate the barrel, 847 00:17:05,099 --> 00:17:08,190 Well, you use oil to lubricate the barrel, 848 00:17:08,190 --> 00:17:08,459 but all the synthetic oils the scientists tried 849 00:17:08,459 --> 00:17:10,199 but all the synthetic oils the scientists tried 850 00:17:10,199 --> 00:17:10,650 but all the synthetic oils the scientists tried 851 00:17:10,650 --> 00:17:12,119 would dry up. 852 00:17:12,119 --> 00:17:12,959 In the end, 853 00:17:12,959 --> 00:17:12,960 854 00:17:12,960 --> 00:17:13,859 the only oil they could find that would work 855 00:17:13,859 --> 00:17:15,720 the only oil they could find that would work 856 00:17:15,720 --> 00:17:16,020 was the oil from sperm whales. 857 00:17:16,020 --> 00:17:18,393 was the oil from sperm whales. 858 00:17:18,393 --> 00:17:20,000 859 00:17:20,280 --> 00:17:20,400 860 00:17:20,400 --> 00:17:22,919 Only about 0.7% of naturally occurring uranium is U235, 861 00:17:22,919 --> 00:17:25,400 Only about 0.7% of naturally occurring uranium is U235, 862 00:17:25,400 --> 00:17:25,619 863 00:17:25,619 --> 00:17:26,459 the fissile fuel for nuclear bombs. 864 00:17:26,459 --> 00:17:28,439 the fissile fuel for nuclear bombs. 865 00:17:28,439 --> 00:17:28,440 866 00:17:28,440 --> 00:17:29,640 When U235 absorbs a neutron, 867 00:17:29,640 --> 00:17:31,050 When U235 absorbs a neutron, 868 00:17:31,050 --> 00:17:32,360 it briefly becomes U236, 869 00:17:32,360 --> 00:17:33,540 it briefly becomes U236, 870 00:17:33,540 --> 00:17:36,000 and then it rips itself roughly in half 871 00:17:36,000 --> 00:17:36,300 and then it rips itself roughly in half 872 00:17:36,300 --> 00:17:38,820 and releases on average 2.4 neutrons per fission. 873 00:17:38,820 --> 00:17:40,560 and releases on average 2.4 neutrons per fission. 874 00:17:40,560 --> 00:17:41,220 But when you get uranium outta the ground, 875 00:17:41,220 --> 00:17:42,480 But when you get uranium outta the ground, 876 00:17:42,480 --> 00:17:43,559 most of it is U238, 877 00:17:43,559 --> 00:17:44,490 most of it is U238, 878 00:17:44,490 --> 00:17:46,830 which doesn't undergo fission. 879 00:17:46,830 --> 00:17:47,100 So to make a nuclear bomb, 880 00:17:47,100 --> 00:17:48,060 So to make a nuclear bomb, 881 00:17:48,060 --> 00:17:48,900 the scientists use gigantic mass spectrometers 882 00:17:48,900 --> 00:17:51,028 the scientists use gigantic mass spectrometers 883 00:17:51,028 --> 00:17:51,720 to separate out and concentrate the U235, 884 00:17:51,720 --> 00:17:54,539 to separate out and concentrate the U235, 885 00:17:54,539 --> 00:17:55,200 to separate out and concentrate the U235, 886 00:17:55,200 --> 00:17:57,960 and the resulting substance was uranium 887 00:17:57,960 --> 00:17:58,020 with a much higher concentration of U235. 888 00:17:58,020 --> 00:18:00,059 with a much higher concentration of U235. 889 00:18:00,059 --> 00:18:01,290 with a much higher concentration of U235. 890 00:18:01,290 --> 00:18:04,200 In other words, it was enriched. 891 00:18:04,200 --> 00:18:04,320 In other words, it was enriched. 892 00:18:04,320 --> 00:18:06,660 There was another option though. 893 00:18:06,660 --> 00:18:06,810 There was another option though. 894 00:18:06,810 --> 00:18:08,490 In early 1941, 895 00:18:08,490 --> 00:18:09,660 a new element was discovered or rather synthesized. 896 00:18:09,660 --> 00:18:12,180 a new element was discovered or rather synthesized. 897 00:18:12,180 --> 00:18:12,600 When a neutron is absorbed by a nucleus of uranium-238, 898 00:18:12,600 --> 00:18:14,340 When a neutron is absorbed by a nucleus of uranium-238, 899 00:18:14,340 --> 00:18:15,570 When a neutron is absorbed by a nucleus of uranium-238, 900 00:18:15,570 --> 00:18:18,257 it turns into uranium-239. 901 00:18:18,257 --> 00:18:18,320 U239 is unstable, 902 00:18:18,320 --> 00:18:20,580 U239 is unstable, 903 00:18:20,580 --> 00:18:21,660 so it decays into Neptunium, 904 00:18:21,660 --> 00:18:22,620 so it decays into Neptunium, 905 00:18:22,620 --> 00:18:24,573 which then becomes plutonium. 906 00:18:24,573 --> 00:18:25,559 907 00:18:25,559 --> 00:18:25,710 908 00:18:25,710 --> 00:18:27,600 There are three things that matter for this story. 909 00:18:27,600 --> 00:18:28,230 There are three things that matter for this story. 910 00:18:28,230 --> 00:18:30,022 First is that plutonium-239 911 00:18:30,022 --> 00:18:30,240 is a great fuel for a nuclear bomb. 912 00:18:30,240 --> 00:18:32,430 is a great fuel for a nuclear bomb. 913 00:18:32,430 --> 00:18:32,700 It has a critical mass of only about 10 kilograms. 914 00:18:32,700 --> 00:18:34,440 It has a critical mass of only about 10 kilograms. 915 00:18:34,440 --> 00:18:35,490 It has a critical mass of only about 10 kilograms. 916 00:18:35,490 --> 00:18:37,140 Second, it is cheaper to make than to separate uranium-235 917 00:18:37,140 --> 00:18:39,492 Second, it is cheaper to make than to separate uranium-235 918 00:18:39,492 --> 00:18:40,440 and third, it reacts too quickly 919 00:18:40,440 --> 00:18:42,060 and third, it reacts too quickly 920 00:18:42,060 --> 00:18:42,960 to be used in a gun type device. 921 00:18:42,960 --> 00:18:44,040 to be used in a gun type device. 922 00:18:44,040 --> 00:18:44,873 It would fizzle, 923 00:18:44,873 --> 00:18:45,120 meaning only a tiny fraction of the fuel 924 00:18:45,120 --> 00:18:46,950 meaning only a tiny fraction of the fuel 925 00:18:46,950 --> 00:18:47,280 would undergo fission. 926 00:18:47,280 --> 00:18:48,960 would undergo fission. 927 00:18:48,960 --> 00:18:49,050 would undergo fission. 928 00:18:49,050 --> 00:18:51,120 But there is a way to make a bomb using plutonium. 929 00:18:51,120 --> 00:18:51,831 But there is a way to make a bomb using plutonium. 930 00:18:51,831 --> 00:18:53,520 Critical mass changes depending on the density 931 00:18:53,520 --> 00:18:54,780 Critical mass changes depending on the density 932 00:18:54,780 --> 00:18:55,500 of the material. 933 00:18:55,500 --> 00:18:56,100 of the material. 934 00:18:56,100 --> 00:18:57,745 Under normal pressure conditions, 935 00:18:57,745 --> 00:18:58,440 six kilograms of plutonium-239 won't explode. 936 00:18:58,440 --> 00:19:01,559 six kilograms of plutonium-239 won't explode. 937 00:19:01,559 --> 00:19:02,010 six kilograms of plutonium-239 won't explode. 938 00:19:02,010 --> 00:19:03,990 But if you compress it, 939 00:19:03,990 --> 00:19:05,100 the atoms get closer together and the chance of a stay 940 00:19:05,100 --> 00:19:07,080 the atoms get closer together and the chance of a stay 941 00:19:07,080 --> 00:19:07,200 the atoms get closer together and the chance of a stay 942 00:19:07,200 --> 00:19:08,580 neutron hitting the nucleus increases. 943 00:19:08,580 --> 00:19:09,840 neutron hitting the nucleus increases. 944 00:19:09,840 --> 00:19:12,120 So the higher the density, the lower the critical mass. 945 00:19:12,120 --> 00:19:13,662 So the higher the density, the lower the critical mass. 946 00:19:13,662 --> 00:19:13,980 So if you set off conventional explosives 947 00:19:13,980 --> 00:19:15,900 So if you set off conventional explosives 948 00:19:15,900 --> 00:19:16,800 So if you set off conventional explosives 949 00:19:16,800 --> 00:19:18,600 around a ball of plutonium, 950 00:19:18,600 --> 00:19:18,810 around a ball of plutonium, 951 00:19:18,810 --> 00:19:20,340 you can get it compressed enough 952 00:19:20,340 --> 00:19:20,760 to start a nuclear chain reaction. 953 00:19:20,760 --> 00:19:22,763 to start a nuclear chain reaction. 954 00:19:22,763 --> 00:19:24,179 And this was the whole idea behind 955 00:19:24,179 --> 00:19:25,047 And this was the whole idea behind 956 00:19:25,047 --> 00:19:26,280 the implosion bomb design. 957 00:19:26,280 --> 00:19:27,153 the implosion bomb design. 958 00:19:27,153 --> 00:19:28,880 959 00:19:29,520 --> 00:19:29,730 960 00:19:29,730 --> 00:19:31,500 There are a couple ways to cheat lowering the critical mass. 961 00:19:31,500 --> 00:19:33,180 There are a couple ways to cheat lowering the critical mass. 962 00:19:33,180 --> 00:19:33,900 For one thing, 963 00:19:33,900 --> 00:19:34,050 For one thing, 964 00:19:34,050 --> 00:19:35,880 you surround the sphere with a material that reflects 965 00:19:35,880 --> 00:19:36,390 you surround the sphere with a material that reflects 966 00:19:36,390 --> 00:19:37,860 neutrons decreasing the amount of nuclear fuel 967 00:19:37,860 --> 00:19:38,850 neutrons decreasing the amount of nuclear fuel 968 00:19:38,850 --> 00:19:39,539 you need to start a chain reaction. 969 00:19:39,539 --> 00:19:41,040 you need to start a chain reaction. 970 00:19:41,040 --> 00:19:42,419 You can also have a neutron source, 971 00:19:42,419 --> 00:19:43,260 You can also have a neutron source, 972 00:19:43,260 --> 00:19:43,860 something that kick starts the chain reaction. 973 00:19:43,860 --> 00:19:45,601 something that kick starts the chain reaction. 974 00:19:45,601 --> 00:19:46,740 For the first implosion bomb, 975 00:19:46,740 --> 00:19:48,240 For the first implosion bomb, 976 00:19:48,240 --> 00:19:49,200 scientists created a device called the urchin, 977 00:19:49,200 --> 00:19:50,970 scientists created a device called the urchin, 978 00:19:50,970 --> 00:19:51,780 which was a tiny pellet weighing just seven grams, 979 00:19:51,780 --> 00:19:54,360 which was a tiny pellet weighing just seven grams, 980 00:19:54,360 --> 00:19:54,660 which was a tiny pellet weighing just seven grams, 981 00:19:54,660 --> 00:19:56,640 and it would sit at the heart of the bomb. 982 00:19:56,640 --> 00:19:57,240 and it would sit at the heart of the bomb. 983 00:19:57,240 --> 00:19:59,160 It was made of beryllium and polonium 984 00:19:59,160 --> 00:19:59,940 It was made of beryllium and polonium 985 00:19:59,940 --> 00:20:01,799 separated by a layer of nickel and gold. 986 00:20:01,799 --> 00:20:02,850 separated by a layer of nickel and gold. 987 00:20:02,850 --> 00:20:04,440 The idea was that when the explosives detonated, 988 00:20:04,440 --> 00:20:05,760 The idea was that when the explosives detonated, 989 00:20:05,760 --> 00:20:06,660 the shockwave would mix the beryllium and polonium together, 990 00:20:06,660 --> 00:20:08,520 the shockwave would mix the beryllium and polonium together, 991 00:20:08,520 --> 00:20:09,330 the shockwave would mix the beryllium and polonium together, 992 00:20:09,330 --> 00:20:10,559 and then the alpha particles from polonium 993 00:20:10,559 --> 00:20:11,550 and then the alpha particles from polonium 994 00:20:11,550 --> 00:20:12,660 would cause the beryllium to release a flood of neutrons, 995 00:20:12,660 --> 00:20:15,330 would cause the beryllium to release a flood of neutrons, 996 00:20:15,330 --> 00:20:15,660 which would set off the nuclear chain reaction. 997 00:20:15,660 --> 00:20:18,123 which would set off the nuclear chain reaction. 998 00:20:18,123 --> 00:20:19,200 999 00:20:19,200 --> 00:20:19,380 1000 00:20:19,380 --> 00:20:21,150 At least that was the hope. 1001 00:20:21,150 --> 00:20:21,840 An atomic bomb had never been made before. 1002 00:20:21,840 --> 00:20:23,213 An atomic bomb had never been made before. 1003 00:20:23,213 --> 00:20:23,539 Oppenheimer and the rest of the scientists at Los Alamos 1004 00:20:23,539 --> 00:20:25,260 Oppenheimer and the rest of the scientists at Los Alamos 1005 00:20:25,260 --> 00:20:26,460 Oppenheimer and the rest of the scientists at Los Alamos 1006 00:20:26,460 --> 00:20:27,360 needed to act quickly. 1007 00:20:27,360 --> 00:20:27,990 needed to act quickly. 1008 00:20:27,990 --> 00:20:29,910 It was already 1945, 1009 00:20:29,910 --> 00:20:30,900 and Truman wanted to test the weapon 1010 00:20:30,900 --> 00:20:32,130 and Truman wanted to test the weapon 1011 00:20:32,130 --> 00:20:32,700 before the start of the Potsdam conference. 1012 00:20:32,700 --> 00:20:34,800 before the start of the Potsdam conference. 1013 00:20:34,800 --> 00:20:35,160 That's where Truman, Churchill, 1014 00:20:35,160 --> 00:20:36,510 That's where Truman, Churchill, 1015 00:20:36,510 --> 00:20:37,380 and Stalin would come together to plan the post-war piece. 1016 00:20:37,380 --> 00:20:39,780 and Stalin would come together to plan the post-war piece. 1017 00:20:39,780 --> 00:20:40,170 and Stalin would come together to plan the post-war piece. 1018 00:20:40,170 --> 00:20:43,620 The conference began on the 17th of July. 1019 00:20:43,620 --> 00:20:43,740 The conference began on the 17th of July. 1020 00:20:43,740 --> 00:20:45,900 The earliest date that everything could be ready 1021 00:20:45,900 --> 00:20:46,140 The earliest date that everything could be ready 1022 00:20:46,140 --> 00:20:48,240 for the bomb was just one day earlier. 1023 00:20:48,240 --> 00:20:49,200 for the bomb was just one day earlier. 1024 00:20:49,200 --> 00:20:51,539 So that is when the test was scheduled. 1025 00:20:51,539 --> 00:20:52,560 So that is when the test was scheduled. 1026 00:20:52,560 --> 00:20:54,333 It was Codenamed Trinity. 1027 00:20:54,333 --> 00:20:56,179 1028 00:20:57,660 --> 00:20:57,780 1029 00:20:57,780 --> 00:21:00,419 The night before Oppenheimer was nervous. 1030 00:21:00,419 --> 00:21:00,870 The night before Oppenheimer was nervous. 1031 00:21:00,870 --> 00:21:02,880 There were so many things that could go wrong. 1032 00:21:02,880 --> 00:21:03,630 There were so many things that could go wrong. 1033 00:21:03,630 --> 00:21:05,520 The last test firing of the explosives 1034 00:21:05,520 --> 00:21:06,210 The last test firing of the explosives 1035 00:21:06,210 --> 00:21:07,860 without the actual plutonium core was a failure. 1036 00:21:07,860 --> 00:21:10,559 without the actual plutonium core was a failure. 1037 00:21:10,559 --> 00:21:10,650 without the actual plutonium core was a failure. 1038 00:21:10,650 --> 00:21:11,850 To calm himself, 1039 00:21:11,850 --> 00:21:13,380 he recited a stanza from the Bhagavad Gita, 1040 00:21:13,380 --> 00:21:14,790 he recited a stanza from the Bhagavad Gita, 1041 00:21:14,790 --> 00:21:16,320 the sacred Hindu poem. 1042 00:21:16,320 --> 00:21:16,830 the sacred Hindu poem. 1043 00:21:16,830 --> 00:21:19,020 He had actually translated the Gita from the original 1044 00:21:19,020 --> 00:21:19,440 He had actually translated the Gita from the original 1045 00:21:19,440 --> 00:21:21,338 Sanskrit in himself. 1046 00:21:21,338 --> 00:21:21,600 In battle, in forest, 1047 00:21:21,600 --> 00:21:23,670 In battle, in forest, 1048 00:21:23,670 --> 00:21:24,840 at the precipice in the mountains, 1049 00:21:24,840 --> 00:21:25,409 at the precipice in the mountains, 1050 00:21:25,409 --> 00:21:28,260 on the dark great sea, 1051 00:21:28,260 --> 00:21:28,440 on the dark great sea, 1052 00:21:28,440 --> 00:21:29,940 in the midst of javelins 1053 00:21:29,940 --> 00:21:31,500 and arrows in sleep, 1054 00:21:31,500 --> 00:21:31,950 and arrows in sleep, 1055 00:21:31,950 --> 00:21:34,200 in confusion, in the depths of shame, 1056 00:21:34,200 --> 00:21:34,902 in confusion, in the depths of shame, 1057 00:21:34,902 --> 00:21:35,340 the good deeds a man has done before defend him. 1058 00:21:35,340 --> 00:21:37,940 the good deeds a man has done before defend him. 1059 00:21:37,940 --> 00:21:39,393 the good deeds a man has done before defend him. 1060 00:21:39,393 --> 00:21:41,100 1061 00:21:41,100 --> 00:21:41,220 1062 00:21:41,220 --> 00:21:43,440 Perhaps more terrifying than the idea of the bomb 1063 00:21:43,440 --> 00:21:43,770 Perhaps more terrifying than the idea of the bomb 1064 00:21:43,770 --> 00:21:46,080 not working was that it would work too well. 1065 00:21:46,080 --> 00:21:47,223 not working was that it would work too well. 1066 00:21:47,223 --> 00:21:49,159 1067 00:21:50,159 --> 00:21:50,340 1068 00:21:50,340 --> 00:21:53,580 Around 1942, Oppenheimer discussed with Arthur Compton 1069 00:21:53,580 --> 00:21:54,313 Around 1942, Oppenheimer discussed with Arthur Compton 1070 00:21:54,313 --> 00:21:56,220 a terrible possibility that a nuclear test 1071 00:21:56,220 --> 00:21:58,230 a terrible possibility that a nuclear test 1072 00:21:58,230 --> 00:21:59,766 could end the world. 1073 00:21:59,766 --> 00:22:00,120 The worry was that the nuclear bomb 1074 00:22:00,120 --> 00:22:02,010 The worry was that the nuclear bomb 1075 00:22:02,010 --> 00:22:02,100 would create temperatures so hot that fusion would occur. 1076 00:22:02,100 --> 00:22:05,280 would create temperatures so hot that fusion would occur. 1077 00:22:05,280 --> 00:22:06,423 would create temperatures so hot that fusion would occur. 1078 00:22:06,423 --> 00:22:08,159 1079 00:22:08,159 --> 00:22:08,310 1080 00:22:08,310 --> 00:22:10,260 A tiny fraction of the atmosphere, 1081 00:22:10,260 --> 00:22:10,740 just one part in 2 million is hydrogen gas. 1082 00:22:10,740 --> 00:22:14,400 just one part in 2 million is hydrogen gas. 1083 00:22:14,400 --> 00:22:14,520 just one part in 2 million is hydrogen gas. 1084 00:22:14,520 --> 00:22:16,020 But the worry was that at high enough temperatures 1085 00:22:16,020 --> 00:22:16,650 But the worry was that at high enough temperatures 1086 00:22:16,650 --> 00:22:18,659 and pressures that hydrogen could fuse to together 1087 00:22:18,659 --> 00:22:20,040 and pressures that hydrogen could fuse to together 1088 00:22:20,040 --> 00:22:21,080 releasing energy, 1089 00:22:21,080 --> 00:22:21,660 releasing energy, 1090 00:22:21,660 --> 00:22:23,952 this energy would fuse more hydrogen. 1091 00:22:23,952 --> 00:22:24,600 It could also break apart the hydrogen 1092 00:22:24,600 --> 00:22:26,490 It could also break apart the hydrogen 1093 00:22:26,490 --> 00:22:26,940 from water vapor causing that to fuse as well. 1094 00:22:26,940 --> 00:22:29,760 from water vapor causing that to fuse as well. 1095 00:22:29,760 --> 00:22:30,120 from water vapor causing that to fuse as well. 1096 00:22:30,120 --> 00:22:31,740 That would release even more energy 1097 00:22:31,740 --> 00:22:31,890 That would release even more energy 1098 00:22:31,890 --> 00:22:34,740 causing yet more fusion until the entirety 1099 00:22:34,740 --> 00:22:35,250 causing yet more fusion until the entirety 1100 00:22:35,250 --> 00:22:37,080 of the Earth's atmosphere would become a giant fusion bomb. 1101 00:22:37,080 --> 00:22:40,020 of the Earth's atmosphere would become a giant fusion bomb. 1102 00:22:40,020 --> 00:22:40,140 of the Earth's atmosphere would become a giant fusion bomb. 1103 00:22:40,140 --> 00:22:41,820 Recalling his conversations with Oppenheimer in 1959, 1104 00:22:41,820 --> 00:22:43,680 Recalling his conversations with Oppenheimer in 1959, 1105 00:22:43,680 --> 00:22:45,539 Compton said, "Nor was this all that Oppenheimer feared. 1106 00:22:45,539 --> 00:22:47,146 Compton said, "Nor was this all that Oppenheimer feared. 1107 00:22:47,146 --> 00:22:47,820 The nitrogen in the air is also unstable, 1108 00:22:47,820 --> 00:22:50,280 The nitrogen in the air is also unstable, 1109 00:22:50,280 --> 00:22:50,520 The nitrogen in the air is also unstable, 1110 00:22:50,520 --> 00:22:51,975 though in less degree. 1111 00:22:51,975 --> 00:22:53,700 Might not it, too, be set off by an 1112 00:22:53,700 --> 00:22:54,930 Might not it, too, be set off by an 1113 00:22:54,930 --> 00:22:56,400 atomic explosion in the atmosphere." 1114 00:22:56,400 --> 00:22:57,539 atomic explosion in the atmosphere." 1115 00:22:57,539 --> 00:22:57,690 atomic explosion in the atmosphere." 1116 00:22:57,690 --> 00:22:59,640 Most of the scientists quickly realized 1117 00:22:59,640 --> 00:22:59,700 how unlikely this scenario was, 1118 00:22:59,700 --> 00:23:01,530 how unlikely this scenario was, 1119 00:23:01,530 --> 00:23:02,039 and they continued on with the project, 1120 00:23:02,039 --> 00:23:03,630 and they continued on with the project, 1121 00:23:03,630 --> 00:23:04,320 so no one took the idea too seriously. 1122 00:23:04,320 --> 00:23:06,390 so no one took the idea too seriously. 1123 00:23:06,390 --> 00:23:06,900 But the thought of starting a fusion reaction with a fission 1124 00:23:06,900 --> 00:23:09,059 But the thought of starting a fusion reaction with a fission 1125 00:23:09,059 --> 00:23:09,810 But the thought of starting a fusion reaction with a fission 1126 00:23:09,810 --> 00:23:11,820 weapon would become very important after the war. 1127 00:23:11,820 --> 00:23:13,391 weapon would become very important after the war. 1128 00:23:13,391 --> 00:23:15,200 (dramatic music) 1129 00:23:15,200 --> 00:23:16,141 (dramatic music) 1130 00:23:16,919 --> 00:23:17,130 1131 00:23:17,130 --> 00:23:20,108 The Trinity test was scheduled for 4:00 AM 1132 00:23:20,108 --> 00:23:20,400 but it was delayed due to a storm. 1133 00:23:20,400 --> 00:23:23,070 but it was delayed due to a storm. 1134 00:23:23,070 --> 00:23:23,760 So at 5:29 and 21 seconds, the gadget, 1135 00:23:23,760 --> 00:23:27,060 So at 5:29 and 21 seconds, the gadget, 1136 00:23:27,060 --> 00:23:27,419 the world's first nuclear bomb detonated, 1137 00:23:27,419 --> 00:23:30,539 the world's first nuclear bomb detonated, 1138 00:23:30,539 --> 00:23:30,630 the world's first nuclear bomb detonated, 1139 00:23:30,630 --> 00:23:33,059 the high explosive squeezed the core of plutonium inwards. 1140 00:23:33,059 --> 00:23:34,504 the high explosive squeezed the core of plutonium inwards. 1141 00:23:34,504 --> 00:23:36,059 The shockwave mixed the beryllium and polonium 1142 00:23:36,059 --> 00:23:37,230 The shockwave mixed the beryllium and polonium 1143 00:23:37,230 --> 00:23:38,159 releasing a flood of neutrons. 1144 00:23:38,159 --> 00:23:40,080 releasing a flood of neutrons. 1145 00:23:40,080 --> 00:23:41,760 The urchin worked. 1146 00:23:41,760 --> 00:23:42,120 It jump started the nuclear reaction, 1147 00:23:42,120 --> 00:23:44,100 It jump started the nuclear reaction, 1148 00:23:44,100 --> 00:23:44,520 and now there was no way to stop it. 1149 00:23:44,520 --> 00:23:46,563 and now there was no way to stop it. 1150 00:23:46,563 --> 00:23:47,460 1151 00:23:47,460 --> 00:23:47,580 1152 00:23:47,580 --> 00:23:50,520 Just six kilograms of plutonium created an explosion 1153 00:23:50,520 --> 00:23:51,090 Just six kilograms of plutonium created an explosion 1154 00:23:51,090 --> 00:23:52,080 that was equivalent to nearly 25,000 tons of TNT. 1155 00:23:52,080 --> 00:23:53,880 that was equivalent to nearly 25,000 tons of TNT. 1156 00:23:53,880 --> 00:23:55,860 that was equivalent to nearly 25,000 tons of TNT. 1157 00:23:55,860 --> 00:23:57,059 The New Mexico mountains were illuminated 1158 00:23:57,059 --> 00:23:57,750 The New Mexico mountains were illuminated 1159 00:23:57,750 --> 00:23:58,799 brighter than in daytime. 1160 00:23:58,799 --> 00:23:59,373 brighter than in daytime. 1161 00:23:59,373 --> 00:24:00,000 The shockwave was felt from over 160 kilometers away. 1162 00:24:00,000 --> 00:24:03,059 The shockwave was felt from over 160 kilometers away. 1163 00:24:03,059 --> 00:24:04,373 The shockwave was felt from over 160 kilometers away. 1164 00:24:04,373 --> 00:24:04,679 1165 00:24:04,679 --> 00:24:04,830 1166 00:24:04,830 --> 00:24:07,500 The mushroom cloud rose to 12 kilometers into the sky. 1167 00:24:07,500 --> 00:24:09,120 The mushroom cloud rose to 12 kilometers into the sky. 1168 00:24:09,120 --> 00:24:09,270 The mushroom cloud rose to 12 kilometers into the sky. 1169 00:24:09,270 --> 00:24:11,640 It was so hot that the desert sand melted 1170 00:24:11,640 --> 00:24:12,360 It was so hot that the desert sand melted 1171 00:24:12,360 --> 00:24:14,400 into a glassy mineral, now known as trinitite. 1172 00:24:14,400 --> 00:24:15,867 into a glassy mineral, now known as trinitite. 1173 00:24:15,867 --> 00:24:16,080 Fortunately, the blast did not set fire to the atmosphere. 1174 00:24:16,080 --> 00:24:18,960 Fortunately, the blast did not set fire to the atmosphere. 1175 00:24:18,960 --> 00:24:20,013 Fortunately, the blast did not set fire to the atmosphere. 1176 00:24:20,013 --> 00:24:21,799 1177 00:24:24,059 --> 00:24:24,210 1178 00:24:24,210 --> 00:24:25,890 On August 6th, 1945, 1179 00:24:25,890 --> 00:24:27,900 the Boeing B29 Flying Fortress dropped little boy, 1180 00:24:27,900 --> 00:24:29,970 the Boeing B29 Flying Fortress dropped little boy, 1181 00:24:29,970 --> 00:24:30,780 a gun type nuclear bomb with 64 kilograms 1182 00:24:30,780 --> 00:24:33,150 a gun type nuclear bomb with 64 kilograms 1183 00:24:33,150 --> 00:24:33,419 of enriched uranium. 1184 00:24:33,419 --> 00:24:34,771 of enriched uranium. 1185 00:24:34,771 --> 00:24:34,980 The nitro cellulose ignited pushing the slugs 1186 00:24:34,980 --> 00:24:37,320 The nitro cellulose ignited pushing the slugs 1187 00:24:37,320 --> 00:24:37,650 The nitro cellulose ignited pushing the slugs 1188 00:24:37,650 --> 00:24:39,260 of uranium-235 together, 1189 00:24:39,260 --> 00:24:39,720 of uranium-235 together, 1190 00:24:39,720 --> 00:24:41,824 tipping it over its critical mass. 1191 00:24:41,824 --> 00:24:42,659 The blast from the explosion equivalent 1192 00:24:42,659 --> 00:24:44,397 The blast from the explosion equivalent 1193 00:24:44,397 --> 00:24:45,240 to 15,000 tons of TNT, 1194 00:24:45,240 --> 00:24:46,440 to 15,000 tons of TNT, 1195 00:24:46,440 --> 00:24:48,060 to 15,000 tons of TNT, 1196 00:24:48,060 --> 00:24:50,159 killed nearly 70,000 people. 1197 00:24:50,159 --> 00:24:51,539 killed nearly 70,000 people. 1198 00:24:51,539 --> 00:24:51,660 killed nearly 70,000 people. 1199 00:24:51,660 --> 00:24:54,720 Another 70,000 would die from burns and radiation poisoning 1200 00:24:54,720 --> 00:24:55,890 Another 70,000 would die from burns and radiation poisoning 1201 00:24:55,890 --> 00:24:56,640 in the following months. 1202 00:24:56,640 --> 00:24:57,720 in the following months. 1203 00:24:57,720 --> 00:24:57,870 in the following months. 1204 00:24:57,870 --> 00:24:58,800 Three days later, 1205 00:24:58,800 --> 00:25:00,059 an implosion type bomb, like the gadget, 1206 00:25:00,059 --> 00:25:01,290 an implosion type bomb, like the gadget, 1207 00:25:01,290 --> 00:25:02,266 was dropped on Nagasaki 1208 00:25:02,266 --> 00:25:02,700 killing an estimated 80,000 more people. 1209 00:25:02,700 --> 00:25:05,763 killing an estimated 80,000 more people. 1210 00:25:05,763 --> 00:25:07,080 1211 00:25:07,080 --> 00:25:07,230 1212 00:25:07,230 --> 00:25:11,340 More than 95% of the 225,000 people killed 1213 00:25:11,340 --> 00:25:12,210 More than 95% of the 225,000 people killed 1214 00:25:12,210 --> 00:25:13,080 in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were civilians. 1215 00:25:13,080 --> 00:25:15,679 in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were civilians. 1216 00:25:15,679 --> 00:25:15,781 in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were civilians. 1217 00:25:15,781 --> 00:25:18,513 Most were women and children. 1218 00:25:18,513 --> 00:25:20,179 1219 00:25:20,940 --> 00:25:21,090 1220 00:25:21,090 --> 00:25:24,299 In 1965, recalling the moments after the Trinity test, 1221 00:25:24,299 --> 00:25:25,500 In 1965, recalling the moments after the Trinity test, 1222 00:25:25,500 --> 00:25:26,880 Oppenheimer said that he thought of another verse 1223 00:25:26,880 --> 00:25:28,050 Oppenheimer said that he thought of another verse 1224 00:25:28,050 --> 00:25:28,860 from the Ghita. 1225 00:25:28,860 --> 00:25:29,520 from the Ghita. 1226 00:25:29,520 --> 00:25:31,877 - He knew the world would not be the same. 1227 00:25:31,877 --> 00:25:33,380 1228 00:25:34,500 --> 00:25:34,557 1229 00:25:34,557 --> 00:25:35,940 Few people laughed, 1230 00:25:35,940 --> 00:25:36,813 Few people laughed, 1231 00:25:36,813 --> 00:25:38,700 1232 00:25:38,700 --> 00:25:38,820 1233 00:25:38,820 --> 00:25:40,083 few people cried. 1234 00:25:40,083 --> 00:25:40,860 1235 00:25:40,860 --> 00:25:41,010 1236 00:25:41,010 --> 00:25:42,573 Most people were silent. 1237 00:25:42,573 --> 00:25:44,600 1238 00:25:45,720 --> 00:25:45,900 1239 00:25:45,900 --> 00:25:47,520 I remembered the line from the Hindu scripture, 1240 00:25:47,520 --> 00:25:49,800 I remembered the line from the Hindu scripture, 1241 00:25:49,800 --> 00:25:50,100 the (speaking foreign language). 1242 00:25:50,100 --> 00:25:50,687 the (speaking foreign language). 1243 00:25:50,687 --> 00:25:51,120 1244 00:25:51,120 --> 00:25:54,210 1245 00:25:54,240 --> 00:25:54,513 1246 00:25:54,513 --> 00:25:57,200 The Vishnu is trying to persuade the prince 1247 00:25:57,200 --> 00:25:57,659 The Vishnu is trying to persuade the prince 1248 00:25:57,659 --> 00:25:57,900 The Vishnu is trying to persuade the prince 1249 00:25:57,900 --> 00:25:59,640 1250 00:25:59,640 --> 00:26:00,210 1251 00:26:00,210 --> 00:26:02,100 that he should do his duty 1252 00:26:02,100 --> 00:26:03,917 that he should do his duty 1253 00:26:03,917 --> 00:26:04,260 and to impress him takes on his multi-armed form and says, 1254 00:26:04,260 --> 00:26:07,020 and to impress him takes on his multi-armed form and says, 1255 00:26:07,020 --> 00:26:08,917 and to impress him takes on his multi-armed form and says, 1256 00:26:08,917 --> 00:26:10,620 1257 00:26:10,620 --> 00:26:12,453 1258 00:26:12,453 --> 00:26:12,480 'Now I am become death the destroyer of worlds.' 1259 00:26:12,480 --> 00:26:14,700 'Now I am become death the destroyer of worlds.' 1260 00:26:14,700 --> 00:26:16,407 'Now I am become death the destroyer of worlds.' 1261 00:26:16,407 --> 00:26:18,140 1262 00:26:19,140 --> 00:26:19,260 1263 00:26:19,260 --> 00:26:21,360 I suppose we all thought that one way or another. 1264 00:26:21,360 --> 00:26:21,753 I suppose we all thought that one way or another. 1265 00:26:21,753 --> 00:26:23,159 1266 00:26:23,159 --> 00:26:23,370 1267 00:26:23,370 --> 00:26:24,510 - [Derek] After the war, 1268 00:26:24,510 --> 00:26:25,919 Oppenheimer was a national hero. 1269 00:26:25,919 --> 00:26:26,940 Oppenheimer was a national hero. 1270 00:26:26,940 --> 00:26:28,500 His portrait was on the cover of Time Magazine, 1271 00:26:28,500 --> 00:26:29,460 His portrait was on the cover of Time Magazine, 1272 00:26:29,460 --> 00:26:30,840 and he became a household name. 1273 00:26:30,840 --> 00:26:31,473 and he became a household name. 1274 00:26:31,473 --> 00:26:32,520 1275 00:26:32,520 --> 00:26:32,670 1276 00:26:32,670 --> 00:26:34,770 In 1947, he became the director 1277 00:26:34,770 --> 00:26:35,220 of the Institute of Advanced Study at Princeton. 1278 00:26:35,220 --> 00:26:37,080 of the Institute of Advanced Study at Princeton. 1279 00:26:37,080 --> 00:26:37,530 of the Institute of Advanced Study at Princeton. 1280 00:26:37,530 --> 00:26:39,060 He also became the chairman 1281 00:26:39,060 --> 00:26:39,539 of the General Advisory Committee, 1282 00:26:39,539 --> 00:26:41,130 of the General Advisory Committee, 1283 00:26:41,130 --> 00:26:41,520 where he became an advisor on nuclear weapons 1284 00:26:41,520 --> 00:26:43,440 where he became an advisor on nuclear weapons 1285 00:26:43,440 --> 00:26:43,470 where he became an advisor on nuclear weapons 1286 00:26:43,470 --> 00:26:45,030 related issues. 1287 00:26:45,030 --> 00:26:46,740 He used his position to argue for arms control. 1288 00:26:46,740 --> 00:26:48,543 He used his position to argue for arms control. 1289 00:26:48,543 --> 00:26:50,100 1290 00:26:50,100 --> 00:26:50,179 (dramatic music) 1291 00:26:50,179 --> 00:26:50,419 (dramatic music) 1292 00:26:50,419 --> 00:26:51,060 (dramatic music) 1293 00:26:51,060 --> 00:26:52,770 In August, 1949, 1294 00:26:52,770 --> 00:26:54,419 the Soviet Union tested their first atomic weapon, 1295 00:26:54,419 --> 00:26:55,773 the Soviet Union tested their first atomic weapon, 1296 00:26:55,773 --> 00:26:57,679 1297 00:26:59,900 --> 00:27:00,160 1298 00:27:00,160 --> 00:27:02,430 and the US military quickly decided 1299 00:27:02,430 --> 00:27:02,520 that the best course of action 1300 00:27:02,520 --> 00:27:04,110 that the best course of action 1301 00:27:04,110 --> 00:27:04,620 was to develop a more powerful bomb. 1302 00:27:04,620 --> 00:27:06,870 was to develop a more powerful bomb. 1303 00:27:06,870 --> 00:27:07,440 The hydrogen bomb, 1304 00:27:07,440 --> 00:27:08,430 The hydrogen bomb, 1305 00:27:08,430 --> 00:27:10,347 known as "The Super", 1306 00:27:10,347 --> 00:27:10,580 Oppenheimer was against the development 1307 00:27:10,580 --> 00:27:13,320 Oppenheimer was against the development 1308 00:27:13,320 --> 00:27:13,380 Oppenheimer was against the development 1309 00:27:13,380 --> 00:27:15,540 of The Super on ethical grounds 1310 00:27:15,540 --> 00:27:16,200 and the worry that it would start an arms race. 1311 00:27:16,200 --> 00:27:18,720 and the worry that it would start an arms race. 1312 00:27:18,720 --> 00:27:18,840 and the worry that it would start an arms race. 1313 00:27:18,840 --> 00:27:20,940 But Truman's administration pushed through, 1314 00:27:20,940 --> 00:27:21,480 But Truman's administration pushed through, 1315 00:27:21,480 --> 00:27:23,580 and three years later, Ivy Mike, 1316 00:27:23,580 --> 00:27:23,640 and three years later, Ivy Mike, 1317 00:27:23,640 --> 00:27:26,279 the first hydrogen bomb was tested in the Marshall Islands. 1318 00:27:26,279 --> 00:27:27,570 the first hydrogen bomb was tested in the Marshall Islands. 1319 00:27:27,570 --> 00:27:28,860 It had a yield of 10.4 megatons of TNT. 1320 00:27:28,860 --> 00:27:31,800 It had a yield of 10.4 megatons of TNT. 1321 00:27:31,800 --> 00:27:33,480 That's 400 times more powerful than the Trinity test. 1322 00:27:33,480 --> 00:27:36,513 That's 400 times more powerful than the Trinity test. 1323 00:27:36,513 --> 00:27:36,620 1324 00:27:36,620 --> 00:27:39,790 1325 00:27:40,740 --> 00:27:40,919 A hydrogen bomb is actually three bombs in one, 1326 00:27:40,919 --> 00:27:43,440 A hydrogen bomb is actually three bombs in one, 1327 00:27:43,440 --> 00:27:44,250 A hydrogen bomb is actually three bombs in one, 1328 00:27:44,250 --> 00:27:46,080 a conventional bomb, a fission bomb, 1329 00:27:46,080 --> 00:27:46,380 a conventional bomb, a fission bomb, 1330 00:27:46,380 --> 00:27:48,000 and a fusion bomb. 1331 00:27:48,000 --> 00:27:48,120 and a fusion bomb. 1332 00:27:48,120 --> 00:27:50,220 The conventional explosives trigger a fission reaction, 1333 00:27:50,220 --> 00:27:50,969 The conventional explosives trigger a fission reaction, 1334 00:27:50,969 --> 00:27:52,620 which increases the temperature and pressure 1335 00:27:52,620 --> 00:27:53,430 which increases the temperature and pressure 1336 00:27:53,430 --> 00:27:54,840 enough to fuse deuterium and tritium together, 1337 00:27:54,840 --> 00:27:56,850 enough to fuse deuterium and tritium together, 1338 00:27:56,850 --> 00:27:57,480 releasing a huge amount of energy. 1339 00:27:57,480 --> 00:28:00,179 releasing a huge amount of energy. 1340 00:28:00,179 --> 00:28:00,300 releasing a huge amount of energy. 1341 00:28:00,300 --> 00:28:03,480 In 1961, the Soviet Union tested the Tsar Bomba, 1342 00:28:03,480 --> 00:28:04,350 In 1961, the Soviet Union tested the Tsar Bomba, 1343 00:28:04,350 --> 00:28:06,600 the most powerful explosion ever detonated. 1344 00:28:06,600 --> 00:28:07,650 the most powerful explosion ever detonated. 1345 00:28:07,650 --> 00:28:09,539 It was another five times more powerful than Ivy Mike 1346 00:28:09,539 --> 00:28:11,250 It was another five times more powerful than Ivy Mike 1347 00:28:11,250 --> 00:28:12,299 around 2000 times more powerful than Trinity. 1348 00:28:12,299 --> 00:28:14,039 around 2000 times more powerful than Trinity. 1349 00:28:14,039 --> 00:28:14,763 around 2000 times more powerful than Trinity. 1350 00:28:14,763 --> 00:28:16,400 1351 00:28:16,860 --> 00:28:17,040 1352 00:28:17,040 --> 00:28:17,873 This kind of arms race 1353 00:28:17,873 --> 00:28:20,100 was exactly what Oppenheimer had feared, 1354 00:28:20,100 --> 00:28:21,420 was exactly what Oppenheimer had feared, 1355 00:28:21,420 --> 00:28:22,440 in part, due to his opposition to the hydrogen bomb. 1356 00:28:22,440 --> 00:28:23,760 in part, due to his opposition to the hydrogen bomb. 1357 00:28:23,760 --> 00:28:24,059 And due to his calls to avert a nuclear arms race, 1358 00:28:24,059 --> 00:28:26,159 And due to his calls to avert a nuclear arms race, 1359 00:28:26,159 --> 00:28:26,640 And due to his calls to avert a nuclear arms race, 1360 00:28:26,640 --> 00:28:28,440 Oppenheimer was essentially put on trial 1361 00:28:28,440 --> 00:28:28,740 Oppenheimer was essentially put on trial 1362 00:28:28,740 --> 00:28:30,419 to revoke his security clearance. 1363 00:28:30,419 --> 00:28:30,810 to revoke his security clearance. 1364 00:28:30,810 --> 00:28:32,400 He had been surveilled while he was working 1365 00:28:32,400 --> 00:28:32,670 He had been surveilled while he was working 1366 00:28:32,670 --> 00:28:33,990 for the Manhattan Project, 1367 00:28:33,990 --> 00:28:34,200 but that surveillance didn't stop after he left. 1368 00:28:34,200 --> 00:28:36,240 but that surveillance didn't stop after he left. 1369 00:28:36,240 --> 00:28:36,870 but that surveillance didn't stop after he left. 1370 00:28:36,870 --> 00:28:38,820 Many of the wiretaps were illegal and warrantless. 1371 00:28:38,820 --> 00:28:40,320 Many of the wiretaps were illegal and warrantless. 1372 00:28:40,320 --> 00:28:41,159 Oppenheimer was questioned about his ties 1373 00:28:41,159 --> 00:28:42,150 Oppenheimer was questioned about his ties 1374 00:28:42,150 --> 00:28:42,480 to the Communist Party, 1375 00:28:42,480 --> 00:28:43,140 to the Communist Party, 1376 00:28:43,140 --> 00:28:44,039 including his affair with Gene Tatlock, 1377 00:28:44,039 --> 00:28:45,360 including his affair with Gene Tatlock, 1378 00:28:45,360 --> 00:28:46,200 a Communist party member 1379 00:28:46,200 --> 00:28:47,040 a Communist party member 1380 00:28:47,040 --> 00:28:48,659 while he was leading the Los Alamos lab. 1381 00:28:48,659 --> 00:28:49,920 while he was leading the Los Alamos lab. 1382 00:28:49,920 --> 00:28:52,020 He was essentially accused of treason and espionage. 1383 00:28:52,020 --> 00:28:54,032 He was essentially accused of treason and espionage. 1384 00:28:54,032 --> 00:28:54,360 In December, 1953, 1385 00:28:54,360 --> 00:28:56,040 In December, 1953, 1386 00:28:56,040 --> 00:28:57,659 Oppenheimer had his security clearance suspended. 1387 00:28:57,659 --> 00:28:59,134 Oppenheimer had his security clearance suspended. 1388 00:28:59,134 --> 00:29:00,179 His face now grim and in black and white 1389 00:29:00,179 --> 00:29:02,009 His face now grim and in black and white 1390 00:29:02,009 --> 00:29:03,120 was once again on the cover of time. 1391 00:29:03,120 --> 00:29:05,070 was once again on the cover of time. 1392 00:29:05,070 --> 00:29:05,760 His security hearings were international news. 1393 00:29:05,760 --> 00:29:08,283 His security hearings were international news. 1394 00:29:08,283 --> 00:29:09,600 1395 00:29:09,600 --> 00:29:09,750 1396 00:29:09,750 --> 00:29:13,080 In 1964, German playwright Heinar Kipphardt 1397 00:29:13,080 --> 00:29:13,290 In 1964, German playwright Heinar Kipphardt 1398 00:29:13,290 --> 00:29:16,220 wrote a play about Oppenheimer's life. 1399 00:29:16,220 --> 00:29:16,470 wrote a play about Oppenheimer's life. 1400 00:29:16,470 --> 00:29:18,720 Oppenheimer was sent a copy of this script, 1401 00:29:18,720 --> 00:29:19,200 Oppenheimer was sent a copy of this script, 1402 00:29:19,200 --> 00:29:21,419 and he hated it so much that he threatened to sue. 1403 00:29:21,419 --> 00:29:22,770 and he hated it so much that he threatened to sue. 1404 00:29:22,770 --> 00:29:24,179 He especially despised the final scene where the character 1405 00:29:24,179 --> 00:29:25,540 He especially despised the final scene where the character 1406 00:29:25,540 --> 00:29:26,100 of Oppenheimer realizes the evil of his work. 1407 00:29:26,100 --> 00:29:28,740 of Oppenheimer realizes the evil of his work. 1408 00:29:28,740 --> 00:29:29,340 of Oppenheimer realizes the evil of his work. 1409 00:29:29,340 --> 00:29:30,487 And I quote, 1410 00:29:30,487 --> 00:29:31,860 "We have been doing the work of the devil." 1411 00:29:31,860 --> 00:29:33,419 "We have been doing the work of the devil." 1412 00:29:33,419 --> 00:29:33,570 "We have been doing the work of the devil." 1413 00:29:33,570 --> 00:29:35,640 To Oppenheimer, it was always more complicated than that. 1414 00:29:35,640 --> 00:29:37,140 To Oppenheimer, it was always more complicated than that. 1415 00:29:37,140 --> 00:29:37,320 To Oppenheimer, it was always more complicated than that. 1416 00:29:37,320 --> 00:29:40,260 - I think that it probably was assumed, 1417 00:29:40,260 --> 00:29:40,620 it certainly was always assumed at Los Alamos 1418 00:29:40,620 --> 00:29:42,179 it certainly was always assumed at Los Alamos 1419 00:29:42,179 --> 00:29:42,919 it certainly was always assumed at Los Alamos 1420 00:29:42,919 --> 00:29:43,200 that if the war were not over and not clearly 1421 00:29:43,200 --> 00:29:45,779 that if the war were not over and not clearly 1422 00:29:45,779 --> 00:29:47,919 that if the war were not over and not clearly 1423 00:29:47,919 --> 00:29:50,419 1424 00:29:52,440 --> 00:29:52,470 1425 00:29:52,470 --> 00:29:55,320 to be brought to a conclusion by the diplomatic means 1426 00:29:55,320 --> 00:29:56,760 to be brought to a conclusion by the diplomatic means 1427 00:29:56,760 --> 00:29:57,470 to be brought to a conclusion by the diplomatic means 1428 00:29:57,470 --> 00:29:58,940 1429 00:29:58,940 --> 00:30:00,419 this weapon would play a part. 1430 00:30:00,419 --> 00:30:01,230 this weapon would play a part. 1431 00:30:01,230 --> 00:30:03,120 At the time, the alternative, 1432 00:30:03,120 --> 00:30:04,503 At the time, the alternative, 1433 00:30:04,503 --> 00:30:06,179 1434 00:30:06,179 --> 00:30:06,300 1435 00:30:06,300 --> 00:30:08,460 the campaign of invasion was certainly much more terrible 1436 00:30:08,460 --> 00:30:10,230 the campaign of invasion was certainly much more terrible 1437 00:30:10,230 --> 00:30:10,620 for everyone concerned. 1438 00:30:10,620 --> 00:30:11,763 for everyone concerned. 1439 00:30:11,763 --> 00:30:13,260 1440 00:30:13,260 --> 00:30:13,440 1441 00:30:13,440 --> 00:30:16,020 I think that Hiroshima was far more costly in life 1442 00:30:16,020 --> 00:30:18,059 I think that Hiroshima was far more costly in life 1443 00:30:18,059 --> 00:30:18,440 I think that Hiroshima was far more costly in life 1444 00:30:18,440 --> 00:30:21,180 1445 00:30:21,180 --> 00:30:21,480 and suffering inhumane than it needed to have been, 1446 00:30:21,480 --> 00:30:24,720 and suffering inhumane than it needed to have been, 1447 00:30:24,720 --> 00:30:26,180 and suffering inhumane than it needed to have been, 1448 00:30:26,180 --> 00:30:27,120 1449 00:30:27,120 --> 00:30:27,210 1450 00:30:27,210 --> 00:30:29,760 to have been an effective argument for ending the war. 1451 00:30:29,760 --> 00:30:32,210 to have been an effective argument for ending the war. 1452 00:30:32,210 --> 00:30:33,360 1453 00:30:33,360 --> 00:30:33,510 1454 00:30:33,510 --> 00:30:36,540 This is easy to say after the fact. 1455 00:30:36,540 --> 00:30:36,840 - In 1965, he was asked about the recent proposal of talks 1456 00:30:36,840 --> 00:30:38,940 - In 1965, he was asked about the recent proposal of talks 1457 00:30:38,940 --> 00:30:39,870 - In 1965, he was asked about the recent proposal of talks 1458 00:30:39,870 --> 00:30:40,679 with the Soviet Union to halt the proliferation 1459 00:30:40,679 --> 00:30:42,450 with the Soviet Union to halt the proliferation 1460 00:30:42,450 --> 00:30:42,960 of nuclear weapons, 1461 00:30:42,960 --> 00:30:43,380 of nuclear weapons, 1462 00:30:43,380 --> 00:30:44,857 and his response was, 1463 00:30:44,857 --> 00:30:45,360 "It should have been done the day after Trinity. 1464 00:30:45,360 --> 00:30:47,419 "It should have been done the day after Trinity. 1465 00:30:47,419 --> 00:30:48,180 "It should have been done the day after Trinity. 1466 00:30:48,180 --> 00:30:50,340 Later that same year, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. 1467 00:30:50,340 --> 00:30:51,570 Later that same year, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. 1468 00:30:51,570 --> 00:30:52,860 He was a lifelong smoker, 1469 00:30:52,860 --> 00:30:53,295 He was a lifelong smoker, 1470 00:30:53,295 --> 00:30:55,320 and he died on the 18th of February, 1967 aged 62. 1471 00:30:55,320 --> 00:30:58,295 and he died on the 18th of February, 1967 aged 62. 1472 00:30:58,295 --> 00:31:01,039 1473 00:31:05,120 --> 00:31:05,190 1474 00:31:05,190 --> 00:31:07,559 Advances in science and technology have given humans 1475 00:31:07,559 --> 00:31:07,951 Advances in science and technology have given humans 1476 00:31:07,951 --> 00:31:09,899 tremendous power to make the world better or worse, 1477 00:31:09,899 --> 00:31:12,240 tremendous power to make the world better or worse, 1478 00:31:12,240 --> 00:31:13,200 and nuclear war isn't the only thing we have to worry about. 1479 00:31:13,200 --> 00:31:14,760 and nuclear war isn't the only thing we have to worry about. 1480 00:31:14,760 --> 00:31:15,480 and nuclear war isn't the only thing we have to worry about. 1481 00:31:15,480 --> 00:31:16,799 Human caused climate change poses a serious threat to 1482 00:31:16,799 --> 00:31:18,630 Human caused climate change poses a serious threat to 1483 00:31:18,630 --> 00:31:19,559 ecosystems and the most vulnerable people around the world. 1484 00:31:19,559 --> 00:31:21,779 ecosystems and the most vulnerable people around the world. 1485 00:31:21,779 --> 00:31:22,380 ecosystems and the most vulnerable people around the world. 1486 00:31:22,380 --> 00:31:24,299 As I record this, we are in the midst of a heat wave, 1487 00:31:24,299 --> 00:31:25,290 As I record this, we are in the midst of a heat wave, 1488 00:31:25,290 --> 00:31:26,279 and my folks up in Canada are suffering 1489 00:31:26,279 --> 00:31:27,120 and my folks up in Canada are suffering 1490 00:31:27,120 --> 00:31:28,020 in the smoke from wildfires. 1491 00:31:28,020 --> 00:31:29,070 in the smoke from wildfires. 1492 00:31:29,070 --> 00:31:30,299 This is where this video sponsor Wren comes in. 1493 00:31:30,299 --> 00:31:31,723 This is where this video sponsor Wren comes in. 1494 00:31:31,723 --> 00:31:33,240 Their mission is to take action on climate change. 1495 00:31:33,240 --> 00:31:34,712 Their mission is to take action on climate change. 1496 00:31:34,712 --> 00:31:35,520 On their website, you can calculate your carbon footprint, 1497 00:31:35,520 --> 00:31:37,140 On their website, you can calculate your carbon footprint, 1498 00:31:37,140 --> 00:31:37,590 On their website, you can calculate your carbon footprint, 1499 00:31:37,590 --> 00:31:38,880 which can help you identify ways to reduce your impact. 1500 00:31:38,880 --> 00:31:40,530 which can help you identify ways to reduce your impact. 1501 00:31:40,530 --> 00:31:41,340 And if you like, 1502 00:31:41,340 --> 00:31:41,640 And if you like, 1503 00:31:41,640 --> 00:31:43,260 you can offset your carbon footprint 1504 00:31:43,260 --> 00:31:43,590 you can offset your carbon footprint 1505 00:31:43,590 --> 00:31:44,760 with a simple monthly subscription. 1506 00:31:44,760 --> 00:31:45,780 with a simple monthly subscription. 1507 00:31:45,780 --> 00:31:47,460 While individual action is important, 1508 00:31:47,460 --> 00:31:47,880 While individual action is important, 1509 00:31:47,880 --> 00:31:49,440 Wren understands that this alone is not enough, 1510 00:31:49,440 --> 00:31:51,000 Wren understands that this alone is not enough, 1511 00:31:51,000 --> 00:31:51,840 which is why your subscription funds 1512 00:31:51,840 --> 00:31:52,560 which is why your subscription funds 1513 00:31:52,560 --> 00:31:53,520 not only carbon removal and offsets, 1514 00:31:53,520 --> 00:31:54,870 not only carbon removal and offsets, 1515 00:31:54,870 --> 00:31:56,520 but also lobbying to enact climate policy 1516 00:31:56,520 --> 00:31:57,660 but also lobbying to enact climate policy 1517 00:31:57,660 --> 00:31:58,440 and land conservation projects. 1518 00:31:58,440 --> 00:31:59,970 and land conservation projects. 1519 00:31:59,970 --> 00:32:00,960 I am particularly fond 1520 00:32:00,960 --> 00:32:01,230 I am particularly fond 1521 00:32:01,230 --> 00:32:02,760 of their new refrigerant destruction project. 1522 00:32:02,760 --> 00:32:04,110 of their new refrigerant destruction project. 1523 00:32:04,110 --> 00:32:05,460 We actually made a video about Thomas Midgley 1524 00:32:05,460 --> 00:32:06,840 We actually made a video about Thomas Midgley 1525 00:32:06,840 --> 00:32:07,799 who invented Freon, 1526 00:32:07,799 --> 00:32:08,460 who invented Freon, 1527 00:32:08,460 --> 00:32:10,140 which is a refrigerant that is both destructive 1528 00:32:10,140 --> 00:32:10,770 which is a refrigerant that is both destructive 1529 00:32:10,770 --> 00:32:12,600 to the ozone layer and a very potent greenhouse gas. 1530 00:32:12,600 --> 00:32:14,730 to the ozone layer and a very potent greenhouse gas. 1531 00:32:14,730 --> 00:32:15,240 Well this project permanently destroys 1532 00:32:15,240 --> 00:32:16,680 Well this project permanently destroys 1533 00:32:16,680 --> 00:32:17,340 harmful refrigerants like CFCs, HCFCs, 1534 00:32:17,340 --> 00:32:19,407 harmful refrigerants like CFCs, HCFCs, 1535 00:32:19,407 --> 00:32:21,059 and HFCs to stop them from getting into the atmosphere. 1536 00:32:21,059 --> 00:32:22,380 and HFCs to stop them from getting into the atmosphere. 1537 00:32:22,380 --> 00:32:22,860 and HFCs to stop them from getting into the atmosphere. 1538 00:32:22,860 --> 00:32:24,299 And this will reduce global warming and prevent the further 1539 00:32:24,299 --> 00:32:25,442 And this will reduce global warming and prevent the further 1540 00:32:25,442 --> 00:32:25,919 destruction of the ozone layer. 1541 00:32:25,919 --> 00:32:27,210 destruction of the ozone layer. 1542 00:32:27,210 --> 00:32:27,600 It's a win-win. 1543 00:32:27,600 --> 00:32:28,043 It's a win-win. 1544 00:32:28,043 --> 00:32:30,179 I personally offset my emissions with Wren, 1545 00:32:30,179 --> 00:32:30,600 I personally offset my emissions with Wren, 1546 00:32:30,600 --> 00:32:31,740 and for the first a hundred people to sign up 1547 00:32:31,740 --> 00:32:32,220 and for the first a hundred people to sign up 1548 00:32:32,220 --> 00:32:33,120 using the link in the description, 1549 00:32:33,120 --> 00:32:33,394 using the link in the description, 1550 00:32:33,394 --> 00:32:35,340 I will personally pay for the first month 1551 00:32:35,340 --> 00:32:35,790 I will personally pay for the first month 1552 00:32:35,790 --> 00:32:36,600 of your subscription. 1553 00:32:36,600 --> 00:32:36,840 of your subscription. 1554 00:32:36,840 --> 00:32:38,880 This is an idea I came up with myself 1555 00:32:38,880 --> 00:32:39,030 This is an idea I came up with myself 1556 00:32:39,030 --> 00:32:40,860 because I think it's so important that for those of us 1557 00:32:40,860 --> 00:32:41,430 because I think it's so important that for those of us 1558 00:32:41,430 --> 00:32:42,270 who can help, 1559 00:32:42,270 --> 00:32:42,659 that we pool our resources together 1560 00:32:42,659 --> 00:32:43,740 that we pool our resources together 1561 00:32:43,740 --> 00:32:44,279 to have a greater impact. 1562 00:32:44,279 --> 00:32:45,180 to have a greater impact. 1563 00:32:45,180 --> 00:32:46,200 So I hope you take the time to check out Wren. 1564 00:32:46,200 --> 00:32:47,460 So I hope you take the time to check out Wren. 1565 00:32:47,460 --> 00:32:48,059 I wanna thank them for sponsoring this part of the video, 1566 00:32:48,059 --> 00:32:49,440 I wanna thank them for sponsoring this part of the video, 1567 00:32:49,440 --> 00:32:49,740 I wanna thank them for sponsoring this part of the video, 1568 00:32:49,740 --> 00:32:51,120 and I wanna thank you for watching. 1569 00:32:51,120 --> 00:32:51,603 and I wanna thank you for watching. 113658

Can't find what you're looking for?
Get subtitles in any language from opensubtitles.com, and translate them here.