ONE of the greatest scientific minds ever would have turned 138 if he was still alive. Here is a look at Albert Einstein’s greatest scientific discoveries.
Born on March 15 1879, Einstein cemented his place in history with his incredible contributions to the world of physics, mathematics and philosophy.
1. Theory of Special Relativity
Einstein’s most recognised contribution to science was his 1905 theory of relativity.
In his paper ‘On the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies’, Einstein presented a new model of movement at the speed of light.
His work on space-time movement gave birth to the mass x acceleration formula, or E = mc2.
2. Evidence for the existence of atoms
Before scientists possessed the technology to actually see atoms, their existence had long been theorised upon by scientists.
For example, botanist Robert Brown wrote a paper in 1827 on how bits of pollen were constantly moving around in water.
In 1905 Einstein worked on the Brownian motion theory, explaining how individual water molecules interacted with pollen.
Einstein’s explanation and theories on the matter were definite proof of the existence of atoms and molecules.
3. Quantum mechanics
Albert Einstein and Danish physicist Niels Bohr engaged in a series of public debates about quantum mechanics.
The discussions were during the peak of scientific discovery in the early 20th century.
Despite their disagreements, the two scientists contributed a great amounts to the field of physics.
4. The atomic bomb
Perhaps most controversially, Einstein’s work contributed to the creation of the atomic bomb.
The most destructive weapon the world has ever seen, ended the Second World War when bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
Although the scientist did not directly work on weapons of mass destruction, his work on energy and relativity laid the necessary foundations for their creation
Upon hearing of the destruction in Hiroshima, Einstein simply said: “Woe is me”.
5. The far-reaching effects of his work
Einstein’s scientific work has contributed towards several fields of physics and paved the way for more discoveries.
He contributed towards the fields of atomic physics, resulting in the widespread use of atomic energy around the world.
Albert Einstein died on April 18 1955, in New Jersey, USA, due to internal bleeding caused by an aneurysm.
His body was cremated and his ashes scattered in an unknown location but parts of his brain remain in the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Washington.