num_pages: 352
description: A delightfully astute and entertaining history of the mishaps and meltdowns that have marked the path of scientific progress (Kirkus Reviews starred review). Radiation: What could go wrong? In short plenty. From Marie Curie carrying around a vial of radium salt because she liked the pretty blue glow to the large-scale disasters at Chernobyl and Fukushima dating back to the late nineteenth century nuclear science has had a rich history of innovative exploration and discovery coupled with mistakes accidents and downright disasters. In this lively book long-time advocate of continued nuclear research and nuclear energy James Mahaffey looks at each incident in turn and analyzes what happened and why often discovering where scientists went wrong when analyzing past meltdowns. Every incident while taking its toll has led to new understanding of the mighty atomand the fascinating frontier of science that still holds both incredible risk and great promise. 
language: None
title: Atomic Accidents: A History of Nuclear Meltdowns and Disasters: From the Ozark Mountains to Fukushima
publisher: Pegasus Books