[New York University faculty Robert B. Potter discusses the science behind the atom bomb and the possibilities for its future application].

Robert B. Potter, science editor for the American Weekly and acting chairmen of the Department of General Science at New York University, discusses the science behind the atom bomb and the possibilities for its future application. Potter articulates two futures for the atomic bomb: its immediate future as the most destructive weapon ever known to humanity, and its future as a revolutionary power source. He compares atomic energy to known energy sources such as gasoline and dynamite, arguing that problems of harnessing atomic energy are similar to the problems faced in the invention of the internal combustion engine, while the energy yield from atomic energy is far greater than any conventional fuel source. After describing the mechanics of the reaction at the heart of atomic energy, Potter says that if atomic technology is turned towards war it will devastate the Earth and humanity.

Broadcast 1945