About

Born in Rome in 1901, Fermi began his academic career in Italy, where he conducted research on statistical mechanics and gained recognition for his work on the theory of beta decay. He later moved to the United States and became a key figure in the Manhattan Project, which led to the creation of the world's first nuclear reactor and atomic bomb. Fermi's most notable achievement was his successful demonstration of controlled nuclear chain reactions, which paved the way for the construction of nuclear power plants and the utilization of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. His research also encompassed the study of cosmic rays, the development of radioactive isotopes for medical use, and numerous contributions to theoretical physics. Fermi received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1938 for his discovery of new radioactive elements produced by neutron irradiation. He was renowned for his exceptional problem-solving skills and ability to make accurate estimations through the use of "Fermi problems. " These problems involved making quick and accurate calculations by making reasonable assumptions and approximations. Despite his scientific achievements, Fermi remained humble and reserved throughout his life. He actively avoided public attention and political controversies. Enrico Fermi died in 1954 at the age of 53 after battling stomach cancer. His contributions to physics and his impact on the development of nuclear energy continue to be celebrated and studied by scientists and historians alike.