Katherine Wei: A Nuclear Physicist's Contribution to Radioactive Decay

Katherine Wei, a nuclear physicist, made important contributions to the field of radioactive decay. She worked on the construction of a neutron source to produce Neptuneium 239, an isotope crucial for nuclear weapons. Additionally, Wei developed the Way Wigner Formula for Fish and Product DK, which generalized and simplified calculations for decay heat in nuclear reactors. She played a significant role in the Manhattan Project, working with Fermi's data and visiting multiple project sites. Wei also signed the Zilard petition, urging Truman to consider the moral implications of using atomic bombs on Japan. Post-war, she had a vision for the world of nuclear studies, establishing programs at Oak Ridge resembling Princeton's Institute for Advanced Study. Wei co-organized the book "One World or None," a New York Times bestseller that raised awareness about the consequences of nuclear weaponry. Throughout her life, Wei was an advocate for social justice, marched in civil rights demonstrations, and spoke out against McCarthyism.