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Mysterious radioactive stone discovered at site of first nuclear explosion in US desert

Written by Alisson Ficher
Published 01/08/2024 às 20:37
Radioactive greenish glass was found in the US desert where the first nuclear bomb exploded in 1945. (Image: Disclosure/ oppenheimer)
Radioactive greenish glass was found in the US desert where the first nuclear bomb exploded in 1945. (Image: Disclosure/ oppenheimer)

When talking about nuclear explosions, the minds of many are immediately transported to images of destruction and radiation. But in the heart of the United States desert, where the first nuclear bomb was detonated, something surprising and peculiar was found.

On July 16, 1945, the United States carried out the first nuclear test, known as “Trinity”. This event marked the beginning of the atomic age and was held in the New Mexico desert, a location chosen for its isolation and safety.

The test, part of the Manhattan Project, aimed to prove the viability of nuclear weapons and pave the way for the end of World War II. However, in addition to the historical and political consequences, the explosion left a curious physical legacy: trinitite.

According to experts, trinitite is a glassy compound with a greenish color, which was formed at the time of the explosion when the intense energy of the bomb fused the desert sand with other materials. Although radioactive, trinitite emits low doses of radiation, making it an object of study and curiosity, but not a serious health risk.

The recently released film “Oppenheimer” has revived interest in the story of the Trinity test and its consequences. Robert Oppenheimer, often called the 'father of atomic bomb', led the Manhattan Project and was present during the explosion, witnessing the bomb's devastating effects. Trinitite, which can only be found in this specific location, symbolizes both scientific innovation and the dangers inherent in nuclear power.

According to information from the United States Nuclear Energy Association, trinitite is not only a geological curiosity, but also a permanent reminder of the events that unfolded on that fateful day in July. It serves as a natural monument that reminds us of the destructive capabilities of nuclear weapons and the responsibility that comes with such power.

Although radioactive, trinitite emits low doses of radiation. (Image: reproduction)
Although radioactive, trinitite emits low doses of radiation. (Image: reproduction)

According to the YouTube channel science every day, although many physicists have speculated about the possible results of the Trinity test, including the unfounded fear that the explosion could ignite Earth's atmosphere, the reality was less catastrophic but equally impressive. The site of the explosion was marked by a monument erected in the middle of the desert, a tribute to the scientific advances and ethical complexities of the atomic age.

Today, trinitite is studied by scientists and admired by curious people, representing a crucial moment in world history. Its existence continues to fascinate and intrigue those who visit the Trinity Test Site, offering a glimpse of the lasting impact a single nuclear explosion can have on the landscape and human consciousness.

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Alisson Ficher

Journalist graduated in 2017 and working in the field since 2015, with six years of experience in print magazines and over 12 thousand online publications. Specialist in politics, jobs, economics, courses, among other topics. If you have any questions, want to report an error or suggest a topic on the topics covered on the site, please contact us by email: alisson.hficher@outlook.com. We do not accept resumes!

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