NEW SOURCE OF POWER

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21191, 14 August 1940, Page 6

NEW SOURCE OF POWER

Had it not been proved that science performs modern “miracles,” apparently extravagant claims made by scientists would be received with greater scepticism. The latest “wonder” comes from the United States, where it is claimed that scientists have isolated a natural substance known as U 235, for which amazing claims are made. It is said that one pound of U 235 is equal in power output to 5,000,000 pounds of coal or 3,000,000 gallons of petrol; that 10 pounds of the substance would drive a liner round the oceans of the world for an indefinite period without refuelling. No doubt U 235 has become more romantic with the telling of the tale, but in any case the discovery has created widespread interest. The new substance is said to be closely related to uranium and is found in abundance in many countries. Science has only just succeeded in isolating it, and the initial difficulty is said to be in perfecting the process of isolation. How the mysterious power of U 235 is applied to produce energy has not been explained in detail, and until that explanation is forthcoming, it is not wise to jump to conclusions. Too many people have been on the brink of a great discovery that would revolutionise the world, but at the same time some have succeeded in astonishing degree. What were once regarded as fanciful dreams are now commonplaces of life. Steam power, electricity and other discoveries and developments of science have in fact completely revolutionised society. If this strange new source of power is developed successfully, what of coal, petrol and other great power-givers ? The new development, even if it proves all that is claimed of it, is nothing to be feared. The progress of the human race will provide a place for it, just as it has accommodated electricity. The question naturally arises whether U 235 can be pressed into the service of the Powers for the destructive business of the present war, or whether its useful development is a matter for the distant future. German agents are reported to be actively on the trail. A cheap source of power of unlimited range would certainly appeal to the Nazis, whose access to petrol and coal is seriously limited. However, before undue hopes are raised or fears entertained the public will want to hear a great deal more about the mysterious U 235.