The UN Security Council is debating whether or not to enforce further penalties on North Korea preceding the nuclear tests they conducted. On January 6, North Korea claimed they successfully carried out testing of their hydrogen bomb [a thermonuclear bomb] in a brief, vague statement. Some scientists question whether there is even a hydrogen bomb in existence in North Korea. If confirmed, this hydrogen bomb will further aid in North Korea's attempt in strengthening its nuclear arsenal.
As of now there is little information about the bomb. All that is certain is that North Korea stated that they “successfully” tested a miniaturized hydrogen bomb. This announcement has triggered international criticism and skepticism, some believing the bomb is simply just a “boosted” atom bomb.
“I'm not sure whether to believe it or not, but it's definitely scary to think about. Having a successful hydrogen bomb gives them a lot of leverage and who knows what will come of it,” NHS junior Kaitlyn McNichols said.
` In an attempt to try to prepare for “what will come,” the UN council was set to hold a closed door meeting to discuss the nuclear test and what measures must be taken just in case this test is confirmed.
“There is such a sense of urgency now because of this news. This bomb that North Korea has is so extremely powerful,” NHS junior Laura Malin said.
A hydrogen bomb is substantially more powerful than other bombs because of fission. Fission allows the release of energy by separating atoms. Fission releases a lot more energy when two atoms are melded together, which makes the hydrogen bomb so powerful. This particular bomb uses both basic fission and the adapted version with melded atoms. To put this in perspective compare the two atomic bombs dropped on Japan during World War II to the hydrogen bomb. The “Little Boy” bomb dropped on Hiroshima was 15 kilotons and killed an estimated 70,000 people. The “Fat Man” bomb dropped on Nagasaki was 21 kilotons and it killed an estimated 129,000 people. North Korea's hydrogen bomb is speculated to be around 50 kilotons or more. The most powerful documented hydrogen bomb as of right now is in the possession of the U.S Arsenal. It is 1.2 megatons which is about the same as 80 Hiroshimas.
“I'm happy that we [the U.S.] also have access to a hydrogen bomb. It's good that we have experience with it and know it's properties,” NHS senior Chloe Blakeman said.
As of right now everyone is looking for answers and a confirmation on the status of this bomb. Whether or not the hydrogen bomb exists, North Korea has violated the UN Security Council Resolutions just by simply stating that they have a hydrogen bomb. Precautions are being taken and the UN are working on a resolution to insure public safety as well as the safety between the nations.
Image Courtesy of ibtimes.co.uk