Adam Mann was conducting experiments with the radioactive isotope Uranium-235 and got caught in a "weird chemical accident" that gave him atomic powers. He used these powers to covertly fight crime and Communism as Atomic Man. His powers included super strength, flight, and projecting energy blasts from his right hand. To control and neutralize his powers, he wore a lead glove over his hand that he took off when he wanted to turn the powers on.