Could a B-17 carry an atomic bomb?

Could a B-17 carry an atomic bomb if B-29 range or availability became a problem?

Possibly after modification, but bomb dimensions and the range-payload tradeoff would remain problems, while the B-29 offered better protection.

A B-17 might carry the weapon if the aircraft and bomb installation were adapted. Physical dimensions would still be a serious problem rather than payload weight being the only constraint. Range could be traded against bomb load, but the B-29 offered greater range and protection. Fitting a unique weapon involves internal geometry, performance, and survivability together.