The exact cost of producing the Little Boy and Fat Man atomic bombs is difficult to determine, as it involved not only the cost of materials but also the cost of research, development, and testing. However, estimates suggest that the total cost was around $2 billion USD.
The cost of the plutonium used in the Little Boy and Fat Man bombs was around $100 per gram. The total amount of plutonium used in both bombs was approximately 14.5 pounds, making the total cost of plutonium around $2.2 million USD.
Several factors influenced the cost of producing the Little Boy and Fat Man bombs, including the cost of materials such as uranium and plutonium, the cost of research and development, and the cost of testing and manufacturing the bombs. The urgency of the project during World War II also likely drove up costs.
The cost of uranium and plutonium played a significant role in the development of the atomic bombs. As both materials were relatively rare and expensive, scientists had to carefully consider how to use them efficiently in order to create a successful bomb. This led to extensive testing and experimentation, which ultimately increased the overall cost of the project.
The cost of producing atomic bombs has certainly changed over time due to advancements in technology and changes in the global market. However, the exact cost is still difficult to determine as it often involves classified information and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each project. Additionally, the cost of maintaining and disposing of nuclear weapons also contributes to the overall cost of producing atomic bombs.