Enrico Fermi Biography

Develops quantum statistics for indistinguishable particles with half-integer spin, providing the statistical framework for electrons.

Creates a quantitative theory of beta decay in which electrons and neutrinos are produced in weak nuclear transformations.

Bombards uranium with neutrons during experiments on induced radioactivity.

Receives the Nobel Prize in Physics for neutron-induced radioactivity and nuclear reactions caused by slow neutrons.

Fermi's group begins receiving and preparing uranium and graphite for construction of Chicago Pile-1.

Fermi's group begins round-the-clock construction of Chicago Pile-1 beneath the west stands of Stagg Field.

Fermi supervises startup work as loading of uranium into Hanford's first full-scale plutonium-production reactor is completed.