atomic pile

noun

, Physics.

1. reactor ( def 4 ).

atomic pile

noun

1. the original name for a nuclear reactor

atomic pile

1. An early type of nuclear reactor whose core consisted of layers of graphite block interspersed with uranium, designed to create a sustained fission reaction.

Word History and Origins

Origin of atomic pile¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Sure enough, conflict between them broke open at the end of January, when Lawrence appeared in Chicago with a proposal to centralize all the plutonium and isotope work, including the atomic pile, at Berkeley.

From Literature

In this cave, Heisenberg had been trying to build an atomic pile, similar to the one made by Enrico Fermi on the squash court in Chicago.

From Literature

These are materials such as carbon, iodine or phosphorus that are radioactivated in atomic piles, so that they give off a steady stream of radiation waves.

From US News

In milliseconds the entire atomic pile melted, disintegrated, and was hurled upward nine feet, smashing Navy specialist Legg, who was standing on the top, into the concrete ceiling, impaling him on a bolt.

From Newsweek

Nor can they be slowed down by letting them collide with the nuclei of a "moderator" material, as neutrons are slowed in atomic piles.

From Scientific American