Frank Close

In this discussion, Frank Close, a theoretical physicist, Steven Bramwell, a condensed matter physics expert, and Jess Wade, a materials science researcher, dive into the life of Lise Meitner, a groundbreaking female physicist. They explore her pivotal role in discovering nuclear fission while facing significant societal challenges. The conversation highlights her collaborations with Otto Hahn and her moral stance against the military use of her discoveries. They also examine the impacts of political persecution on her career and her eventual, albeit delayed, recognition in the scientific community.

Frank Close, a renowned physicist and author of "Destroyer of Worlds," discusses the intricate history behind nuclear weapons. He delves into the evolution of atomic theory and the pivotal discoveries that led to the realization of nuclear fission. Listeners will learn about the collaborative efforts between British and American scientists during World War II, the engineering challenges faced at Los Alamos, and the dramatic moment of the Trinity test that ignited the nuclear age. Close also reflects on the profound implications for global geopolitics.

Frank Close, Professor Emeritus of Theoretical Physics at Exeter College, Oxford, dives into the intriguing history of the nuclear age. He discusses the late 19th-century discoveries that ignited advancements in nuclear physics. Topics include the pivotal breakthroughs in radioactivity and atomic structure, the major contributions of scientists like the Curies and Enrico Fermi, and the contrasting perspectives on nuclear fission. Close reflects on how these scientific milestones interplayed with historical events, ultimately shaping our understanding of power and terror.

Join Victoria Martin, a collider physics expert from the University of Edinburgh, Harry Cliff, a particle physics research fellow from Cambridge, and Frank Close, an emeritus professor of theoretical physics at Oxford, as they dive into the fascinating world of electrons. Discover the historical evolution of atomic theory, from Thomson's 'plum pudding' model to the modern understanding of atomic structure. The trio explores the dual nature of electrons, their pivotal role in collider physics, and the mysteries surrounding their size and interactions.

In this enlightening discussion, Frank Close, an expert on Klaus Fuchs and author of "Trinity," explores the controversial life of Fuchs, a pivotal figure in Cold War espionage. He delves into Fuchs' motivations for sharing nuclear secrets and the moral dilemmas faced by scientists in the Manhattan Project. Close debates whether Fuchs was a betrayer or a peacemaker, unveiling the intricate balance of loyalty and ethics in his dual allegiance. The conversation also touches on the legacy of espionage and its far-reaching consequences on global security.

In this enlightening discussion, physicists Bruce Cameron Reed and Frank Close, along with Cynthia Kelly of the Atomic Heritage Foundation, delve into the monumental Manhattan Project. They explore the urgency sparked by early nuclear fission discoveries and the fear of Nazi Germany's potential atomic bomb. Leadership from figures like Oppenheimer and Groves in Los Alamos is examined, alongside the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists. The catastrophic impact of the bombs dropped on Japan and the ongoing legacy of nuclear weaponry and disarmament efforts are also thoughtfully analyzed.

Researchers have developed a medical imaging technique which reveals where in the body HIV lies hidden, even when people have their infection well controlled by antiviral drugs. The team at the University of California, San Francisco hope this will lead to better treatments and even cures for HIV. As Timothy Henrich told us, they are also going to use the technique to investigate the notion that Long Covid is caused by the coronavirus persisting deep in the body's tissues.Also in the programme, Roland Pease reports from the vast particle accelerator in Switzerland where the famous Higgs particle was discovered ten years ago. The scientists there are preparing to begin experiments with an upgraded Large Hadron Collider to learn more about the particle and the fundamental nature of the Universe. Roland also talks to Frank Close, physicist and author of 'Elusive' - a new biography of Peter Higgs, a scientist as elusive as the particle named after him.Finally an international team of archaeologists have revised the ancient history of the chicken, with a new programme of radiocarbon dating and analysis of buried bird bones. Humanity's relationship with the bird began much more recently than some researchers have suggested. Naomi Sykes of Exeter University and Greger Larson of Oxford University tell Roland when, where and how the domestication began and how the birds spread from Southeast Asia to the rest of the world.Image: VRCPET body scan reveals HIV's hideouts Credit: Timothy Henrich / University of California, San FranciscoPresenter: Roland Pease Producer: Andrew Luck-Baker

Frank Close, a physicist and author of “Destroyer of Worlds,” dives into the origins of nuclear weapons. He highlights the critical discoveries in atomic theory made by pioneers like Curie and Rutherford. The podcast investigates the neutron's pivotal role in nuclear research and the urgency felt by scientists during WWII. Close also reflects on the collaboration between British and American scientists that birthed nuclear weapons, examining both the historical context and the awe-inspiring geography of Los Alamos.

In this captivating discussion, Carolin Crawford, a Public Astronomer from the University of Cambridge, Frank Close, an Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford, and Lucie Green, a Professor of Physics at University College London, delve into the wonders of solar and lunar eclipses. They explore historical beliefs, such as ancient dragons devouring the sun, while revealing how these celestial events have unveiled scientific truths. The conversation touches on critical moments in scientific history and the emotional impact of witnessing an eclipse, showcasing their profound significance.

Frank Close, a theoretical physicist and author, discusses the historical motivations behind the quest for atomic energy, emphasizing how scientific curiosity transformed into political chaos. Tim Gregory, a nuclear chemist, argues for the potential of nuclear energy to combat climate change and dispel fears surrounding waste. In contrast, Natalie Bennett, former leader of the Green Party, critiques nuclear as outdated and distracting from renewable solutions, raising concerns about safety and waste disposal. Their diverse perspectives highlight the complex role of nuclear science in society.