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The Chernobyl Disaster: How a Nuclear Experiment Went Horribly Wrong

By: Jonny Wilkes
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

A secret experiment at a Soviet nuclear plant in 1986 led to an explosion, radioactive fallout, and one of the deadliest environmental disasters in history.

The article "The Chernobyl Disaster: How a Nuclear Experiment Went Horribly Wrong" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains how a dangerous test at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine led to a catastrophic explosion. It describes the causes, tragic aftermath, and global consequences of the world’s worst nuclear disaster.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

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Photo of Chernobyl power plant at night, with a huge, bright explosion coming from one of its parts
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 800-1000L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1000–1300L
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