atomic pile

American  

noun

Physics.

1. reactor.

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atomic pile British  

noun

1. the original name for a nuclear reactor

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atomic pile Scientific  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of atomic pile

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

But the polonium, which is made by radiating bismuth in an atomic pile, costs about $10 per curie.

From Time Magazine Archive

Gangling John Henry is a goodhearted scientist who has discovered a mildly radioactive substance called Taurum while experimenting with gold at an atomic pile.

From Time Magazine Archive

When Oak Ridge released the radioactive byproducts of its atomic pile for private use in 1946, few U.S. businessmen paid much attention.

From Time Magazine Archive

The fearful light at Alamagordo and the bombing of Hiroshima are well contrived; but the fine opportunities for suspense�e.g., the trial run in the atomic pile under Stagg Field�are largely bungled.

From Time Magazine Archive

An important breakthrough occurred in a squash court under the west stands of the University of Chicago’s Stagg Field, where Enrico Fermi had erected an atomic pile.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik