Fritz Strassmann

Fritz Strassmann

Fritz Strassmann was a German chemist who loved science. He was born in Boppard, Germany, and grew up in Düsseldorf. Fritz had eight older siblings and liked doing chemistry experiments at home.

In 1938, Fritz worked with Otto Hahn and made an amazing discovery. They found that when uranium is hit by tiny particles called neutrons, it can break apart and make a new element called barium. This discovery helped scientists learn about something called nuclear fission.

Fritz continued to work hard even when times were tough. He taught students and helped build a special place for nuclear chemistry at the University of Mainz. He got to enjoy playing the violin and had a family with his wife Maria and later Irmgard.

Fritz’s work helped people understand important ideas about energy and science. He will always be remembered for his clever discoveries.