Final answer:
Fritz Haber's invention led to a significant increase in food production, helping to prevent global famine, but it also played a role in the development of chemical weapons, illustrating the complex legacy of scientific achievements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why was Fritz Haber's invention a triumph and a tragedy? Fritz Haber's invention was a triumph and a tragedy for several reasons, specifically option C is correct: The invention boosted crop yields but contributed to the development of chemical weapons. Haber's work in ammonia production was instrumental in the synthesis of fertilizers that revolutionized agriculture during the early 20th century. This led to increased food supply and supported the world's growing population, which was a significant factor during the Green Revolution. However, Haber is also considered one of the fathers of chemical warfare due to his role in developing poisonous gases used during World War I.
His work highlights the ethical dilemmas and the double-edged nature of scientific progress. While on one hand, it tremendously benefitted humanity by averting global famine and enhancing agricultural productivity through increased crop yields, on the other hand, it also introduced a new form of warfare that caused immense suffering and raised profound ethical questions about the proper use of science and technology.