Can a Magnetic Field Stop a Nuclear Bomb?

In summary, a nuclear bomb cannot be stopped once it has detonated, so the only way to prevent it is before it explodes. One possible solution is to generate a magnetic field that brings protons and electrons together to keep the initial atom intact. However, this idea is not feasible as fission occurs in the nucleus and a magnetic field would not affect it. The control system and interlocks can be damaged to prevent the bomb from initiating.
  • #1
MD Device
1
0
So I was thinking about ways to stop the nuclear bomb and I know enough to say that it is close to impossible to stop a nuclear bomb once it has detonated. So, the only time to stop it is before it explodes. What if we generated a magnetic field in which the protons and electrons within it would rapidly come together to keep the initial atom together? Sort of like breaking one stick versus breaking one hundred sticks bound together.
 
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  • #2
Electrons have no role in a nuclear bomb.
 
  • #3
mathman said:
Electrons have no role in a nuclear bomb.
Well, in the sense that the controls are electronic, electrons do play a role, as in any control system.
MD Device said:
What if we generated a magnetic field in which the protons and electrons within it would rapidly come together to keep the initial atom together?
No, this is not how it works. Fission occurs in the nucleus, and an intense magnetic field will not affect the fission process. Certainly, damaging/disabling the control system and interlocks can prevent the system from initiating.
 
  • #4
Ask Sledge Hammer. :eek:
 
  • #5
In fact, the nuclear reaction is started by setting off an explosive shell the pushed the material tightly together.
 

Related to Can a Magnetic Field Stop a Nuclear Bomb?

1. Can we stop a nuclear bomb with technology?

Yes, there are various technological methods that can be used to stop a nuclear bomb. These include missile defense systems, radiation detection and monitoring systems, and bomb-disabling robots.

2. How effective are diplomatic efforts in stopping a nuclear bomb?

Diplomatic efforts can be effective in preventing a nuclear bomb from being used, but it may not be as reliable as using technology. Negotiating and enforcing disarmament agreements and sanctions against countries developing nuclear weapons can help reduce the risk of a nuclear attack.

3. Is it possible to detect a nuclear bomb before it detonates?

Yes, there are various methods that can be used to detect a nuclear bomb before it detonates. These include radiation detection and monitoring systems, satellite surveillance, and intelligence gathering.

4. Can individuals or organizations prevent a nuclear bomb from being used?

Individuals and organizations can play a role in preventing a nuclear bomb from being used. This can be done through raising awareness, advocating for disarmament, and supporting diplomatic efforts.

5. How likely is it that we can successfully stop a nuclear bomb?

The success of stopping a nuclear bomb depends on various factors, such as the type of bomb, the technology and methods used, and the response time. It is important to continuously improve and invest in preventative measures to increase the chances of successfully stopping a nuclear bomb.

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