Lise Meitner, Nuclear Physicist, Dies at 89 in Cambridge

Lise Meitner, a physicist known for her contributions to nuclear science, died in Cambridge, England, at the age of 89. Her work played a role in the development of nuclear fission theory.

Meitner was born on November 7, 1878, in Vienna, which was then part of Austria-Hungary. She became recognized for her research in nuclear physics, particularly her involvement in the theoretical explanation of how the uranium atom can be split.

In 1938, Meitner left Nazi Germany due to increasing anti-Semitic policies. After relocating to Sweden, she continued her scientific work in the field of nuclear physics.

Although Meitner's research provided a foundation for the understanding of nuclear fission, she did not participate in the creation of the atomic bomb. Her scientific activities remained focused on theoretical aspects rather than weapons development.

What the numbers show

• Meitner was born in 1878 and died in 1968
• She lived to the age of 89
• She left Germany in 1938 and died in Cambridge, England

Meitner's death was reported by media sources in late October 1968. Her passing marked the end of a career that spanned several decades and multiple countries.

Her move to Sweden allowed her to continue her research despite the political situation in Germany at the time. She remained active in the scientific community after her relocation.

Meitner's legacy is associated with her theoretical contributions to the field of nuclear fission. Her work is recognized as a key part of the scientific advancements in nuclear physics during the twentieth century.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.