James Chadwick

Profession: Physicist

Nationality:

Biography: James Chadwick was a British physicist who is best known for his discovery of the neutron in 1932. This groundbreaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935, recognizing his substantial contributions to the field. His discovery of the neutron, a neutrally charged particle within the atomic nucleus, was a crucial step in the development of nuclear physics.

Chadwick began his scientific career studying under Ernest Rutherford, a pioneer of nuclear physics, at the University of Manchester. In the 1920s, he moved to the Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge, where he continued his investigations into atomic structure.

His discovery of the neutron came during his time at Cambridge. Chadwick identified the neutron after interpreting the results of a series of experiments conducted by other scientists, particularly the work of Irene Joliot-Curie and Frederic Joliot-Curie. His understanding of these experimental results and his subsequent experiments led to the discovery of the neutron, a particle with no charge that resides in the atomic nucleus alongside protons.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Chadwick played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project during World War II. His expertise in nuclear physics was instrumental in understanding the mechanics of nuclear fission, the process that underpins the operation of nuclear weapons.

Born: October 20, 1891
Birthplace: Bollington, Cheshire, England

Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Libra

Died: July 24, 1974 (aged 82)
Cause of Death: Died in his sleep