In simple terms, that assertion is correct, but for those with an expertise in the field, the longer answer to who did it ...

Physicists from both New Zealand and Britain have been credited with splitting the atom — but there is consensus that it was not an American.

Up to two electrons may exist in the atom's first shell. Up to eight electrons may exist in the atom's second shell. An electron may "drop" from an outer shell if an inner shell is not full.

In his inauguration speech, President Donald Trump claimed an American first split the atom. A New Zealand mayor immediately disputed.

A simple model of an atom shows a nucleus orbited ... which have been described as being the first to "split the atom". He blasted beams of radioactive particles into nitrogen gas, which changed ...